@article{ref1,
title="Comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder and opioid dependence",
journal="Curēus",
year="2017",
author="Patel, Rikinkumar S. and Elmaadawi, Ahmed and Nasr, Suhayl and Haskin, John",
volume="9",
number="9",
pages="e1647-e1647",
abstract="Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is predominant amongst individuals addicted to opioids and obscures the course of illness and the treatment outcome. We report the case of a patient with major depressive disorder and opioid dependence, who experienced post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms during a recent visit to the inpatient unit. The similarity of symptoms between post-traumatic stress disorder and opioid dependence is so high that, sometimes, it is a challenge to differentiate between these conditions. Since opioid withdrawal symptoms mimic hyper vigilance, this results in an exaggeration of the response of patients with post-traumatic stress disorder. This comorbidity is associated with worse health outcomes, as its pathophysiology involves a common neurobiological circuit. Opioid substitution therapy and psychotherapeutic medications in combination with evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy devised for individuals with comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder and opioid dependence may improve treatment outcomes in this population. Therefore, we conclude that the screening for post-traumatic stress disorder in the opioid-abusing population is crucial. To understand the underlying mechanisms for this comorbidity and to improve the treatment response, further research should be encouraged.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="2168-8184",
doi="10.7759/cureus.1647",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.7759/cureus.1647"
}