Efeito das terapias complementares em dependentes químicos: uma revisão integrativa de literatura

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Substance use disorder is a global problem that causes multiple harms to individuals. Many people suffer from disorders resulting from substance use and require treatment. Moreover, it is noted that current therapies, although important, have limitations and show low rates of adherence and recovery among users. METHODS: An integrative literature review was conducted of studies indexed between 2012 and 2023 in the Scientific Electronic Library Online, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, and EBSCO databases. RESULTS: Thirteen articles were included in the review, addressing the benefits of seven complementary therapies in the treatment of substance dependence. DISCUSSION: The findings indicate that complementary practices may act as adjuvant strategies to conventional treatment. However, important gaps remain, including a scarcity of randomized controlled trials, methodological heterogeneity, and the limited direct application of these interventions within healthcare services. Therefore, there is an urgent need for individualized approaches and for further research to evaluate the effectiveness of these therapies in real-world care settings. CONCLUSION: Integrative and complementary practices, when combined with medical treatment, represent a good health-promotion strategy in the care of individuals with substance dependence, as they provide multiple health benefits, are natural, and have low cost.