Magill CBT MA

Meta-Analysis of CBT for Substance Use

Patient / Population Intervention / Exposure Comparison Outcome

Across 53 RCTs of CBT for substance use, cognitive behavioural therapy produced a small overall effect on substance use relative to comparator conditions.

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Design

Meta-analysis

Endpoint

Substance-use outcomes

Relevance

ResultPooled g=0.154; largest effects for cannabis; effect attenuates after 6–9 months.

Magill M, Ray LA. J Stud Alcohol Drugs. 2009;70(4):516-527. 10.15288/jsad.2009.70.516

Discussion & critique

Sets a realistic expectation for CBT in SUD: modest, time-limited, substance-specific.