ractical application of these treatment strategies.

Research on animals has demonstrated the

profound effects that stimulants can have on the central nervous system, and new technologies
have begun to document the stimulant-induced neurological impairments in humans. Researchers
now believe that these impairments underlie the cognitive deficits that are often seen in chronic
stimulant users.
Effective treatment strategies must recognize the impact that stimulant abuse and dependence
have on the user's ability to respond to treatment. The treatment strategies that are described in
this TIP have been scientifically validated as effective in treating people with stimulant use
disorders. These strategies address the specific problems and needs that are inherent to chronic
stimulant users.
This document discusses in detail the practical application of these treatment strategies and
makes recommendations to improve treatment outcomes for stimulant abuse and dependence.
The document also provides for clinicians and primary care providers an overview of the medical
aspects of stimulant use. Furthermore, treatment issues for special groups and settings are
reviewed.
This TIP represents another step by CSAT toward its goal of bringing national leaders together to
improve substance use disorder treatment in the United States.

Foreword
The Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) series fulfills SAMHSA/CSAT's mission to improve
treatment of substance use disorders by providing best practices guidance to clinicians, program
administrators, and payors. TIPs are the result of careful consideration of all relevant clinical and
health services research findings, demonstration experience, and implementation requirements. A
panel of non-Federal clinical researchers, clinicians, program administrators, and client
advocates debates and discusses their particular area of expertise until they reach a consensus on
best practices. This panel's work is then reviewed and critiqued by field reviewers.
The talent, dedication, and hard work that TIPs panelists and reviewers bring to this highly
participatory process have bridged the gap between the promise of research and the needs of
practicing clinicians and administrators. We are grateful to all who have joined with us to
contribute to advances in the substance use disorder treatment field.

Nelba Chavez, Ph.D.

Administrator

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

H. Westley Clark, M.D., J.D., M.P.H., CAS, FASAM

Director

Center for Substance Abuse Treatment

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration