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Nondependent harmful pattern of use of cocaine

Last edited: 4/10/2026

Overview

Cocaine use disorder is a chronic, relapsing brain disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences 1. A nondependent harmful pattern of use refers to continued cocaine use that causes significant distress or impairment, but does not meet the full criteria for dependence 1.

Diagnosis

  • Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment of patterns of use and associated impairment 1.
  • DSM-5 criteria for cocaine use disorder should be considered 1.
  • Management

  • Treatment approaches for cocaine use disorder are primarily behavioral 1.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management have shown efficacy 1.
  • No specific pharmacotherapies are FDA-approved for cocaine use disorder, though research is ongoing 1.
  • Special Populations

  • No specific information regarding special populations was provided in the abstracts.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and contingency management, are recommended for the management of cocaine use disorder 1. (Evidence: Moderate)
  • Screening for cocaine use should be considered in individuals presenting with certain psychiatric or medical conditions 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
  • Ongoing research into pharmacotherapies for cocaine use disorder is warranted 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
  • References

    1 Charters TJ, Kaufman JS, Nandi A. A Causal Mediation Analysis for Investigating the Effect of a Randomized Cash-Transfer Program in Nicaragua. American journal of epidemiology 2023. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      A Causal Mediation Analysis for Investigating the Effect of a Randomized Cash-Transfer Program in Nicaragua.Charters TJ, Kaufman JS, Nandi A American journal of epidemiology (2023)

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