A systematic review of interventions to enhance initiation of and adherence to treatment for alcohol use disorders

Background

Alcohol use disorders (AUDs) contribute significantly to the global disease burden in terms of morbidity and mortality. While effective treatment options exist, engagement with care remains a challenge, impacting treatment outcomes and resource allocation, particularly in resource-constrained settings. In this review, we aim to systematically examine and synthesize the evidence on interventions targeting initiation of and adherence to treatment for AUDs.

Methods

A search was conducted on six electronic databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, Global Health, CINAHL and CENTRAL) using search terms under the following concepts: alcohol use disorders, initiation/adherence, treatments, and controlled trial study design. Due to the heterogeneity in intervention content and outcomes among the included studies, a narrative synthesis was conducted. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools.

Results

The search yielded 32 distinct studies testing eleven categories of interventions. 23 out of 32 studies reported effectiveness of interventions in improving at least one initiation or adherence outcome, with 11 studies reporting an improvement in at least one outcome related to drinking, and four studies reporting improvements in at least one measure of well-being or disability. Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training (CRAFT) emerged as a prominent approach for treatment initiation, contingency management for adherence, and motivational interviewing (MI) for both treatment initiation and adherence.

Conclusion

Integrating initiation and adherence interventions into AUD treatment services holds immense potential for optimizing client outcomes and fostering overall well-being. However, generalizability of these strategies remains uncertain owing to the lack of studies conducted in low- and middle-income countries. Addressing this gap is crucial for enhancing global access to effective treatments for AUDs.