Exercise as an Adjunctive Treatment for Cocaine Dependent Patients

Effectiveness of an Exercise Program in the Treatment of Cocaine Dependence

The purpose of this study is to evaluate if exercise added to usual treatment improves cocaine dependence treatment. The primary objective of this study is to investigate if exercise can facilitate cocaine craving reduction. The secondary aims are to evaluate if exercise can reduce negative mood states, improve quality of life and facilitate abstinence of cocaine.

This study is designed as two-groups, randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of an 8-week exercise program added to usual treatment compared with a health education program in 20 cocaine dependent patients. These participants will be randomized to one of the following two groups: a) exercise group: supervised moderate-vigorous exercise in group based on strength and calisthenics exercises, b) control group: supervised health education in group. All participants must have DSM-IV diagnosis of cocaine dependence as the primary disorder and must be in treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• DSM-IV diagnosis of cocaine dependence as primary disorder
• age between 18 and 60 years
• current psychosocial cocaine treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

• medical problems that contraindicate the participation in an exercise program
• family history of sudden death and/or early death due to cardiovascular reasons
• current inclusion in a regular exercise program