Craving by crack users: a literature review

Abstract

This study aimed to raise the scientific literature on the constructs of craving relating it to situations that stimulate the usage pattern of the crack, the repercussions on the lives of users and control strategies. We conducted a review of the literature through databases SciELO, LILACS and MEDLINE, using the keywords: craving, crack cocaine, and drug dependence. The survey period was from 1996 to 2012, totaling 39 studies. The results demonstrated that the concept of craving (or tear) most used is understood as a strong desire to use a substance, which may influence the user’s life in a negative way through relational ruptures and illicit activities. The craving management is through various strategies and techniques ranging from the use of other drugs to drug therapy. It is concluded that the craving because of its multifactorial etiology and on the way management becomes his peculiar understanding to help crack users in a unique way, involving social and psychological peculiarities of each.

Keywords

• cocaína crack
• craving
• dependência química