Gender differences in progression to crack-cocaine use and the role of sexual and physical violence.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate whether progression from first drug use to crack-cocaine use differs according to gender, and whether the report of sexual or physical violence impacts the time of progression.

Methods: We interviewed 896 crack-cocaine users (548 men; 348 women) from addiction treatment units. Cox regression models evaluated the time of progression from first drug use to crack use.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor in substance use disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is associated with several neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. It is not clear, however, whether BDNF levels are modified in substance use disorders (SUDs).

Methods: We conducted a systematic search of electronic databases to identify studies comparing peripheral plasma or serum BDNF levels in adults with SUDs vs.