Early Abstinence in Cocaine Dependence: Influence of Comorbid Major Depression

Cocaine dependence (CD) is often accompanied by major depressive disorder (MDD). The comorbid condition (CDþMDD) is especially difficult to treat, with relapse possibly made more likely by intensified dysphoria during abstinence in the setting of MDD. We studied treatment-seeking CDþMDD volunteers, currently depressed, and a comparison CD group over three days of inpatient moni-tored abstinence. At admission, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and anxiety scores differed significantly between groups. By Day 3, BDI scores improved for both CD and CDþMDD groups. The mood response to cocaine cessa-tion among CDþMDD individuals resembled that of CD participants, contrary to some expectations. (Am J Addict 2007;16:283–290