Impulsivity in inpatient substance abusers: an exploratory study

Aims and objectives: to assess impulsivity levels in patient substance abusers, before and after a detoxification treatment in a short-term detoxification unit. Methods: Thirty-eight patients (23 women) admitted to the short-term Detoxification Inpatient Unit, Ancona University Hospital, Italy, were enrolled. The level of impulsiveness was measured using the Italian version of the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) at admission and discharge. Results: a short-term detoxification unit admission reduces impulsiveness in substance abusers.