Current research includes two studies of nicotine dependence.
This line of research provides most of the support for the UCSF Habit Abatement Clinic, which has treated and studied over 1,600 smokers. A second line of research, which focuses on cocaine abuse, is funded by VA Merit Review and Human Services Research and Development. We have completed and published a trial of desipramine versus placebo and enhanced continuity of care versus standard referral in cocaine treatment. Data indicated that continuity of care decreased both early attrition from outpatient treatment and cocaine use early in treatment. I am currently completing a clinical trial evaluating a series of patient-treatment matching hypotheses in the treatment of cocaine abuse.