The authors present a programme of comprehensive treatment of the syndrome of dependence - an in-patient department which offered its patients integrated somatic-psychiatric care. The objective of the programme was to provide specialized medical care to patients dependent on psychoactive substances with an infectious comorbidity in such a form that hospital treatment did not act as another form of repression, but conversely was the onset of useful and positive collaboration. During hospitalization on account of a somatic complication the patients were offered a psychotherapeutic programme adjusted to their demands and possibilities. The programme of comprehensive treatment ensured in particular treatment of infectious compli- cations. The long-term objective of the programme was however also motivation of the patient to reduce their risk behaviour, to ensure a more responsible approach to health, and in ideal cases to the treatment of dependence. By its activity the programme contributed to restriction of the spread of infection in the risk population and thus to a risk reduction for the general population.

        Key words: dependence - somatic complications - comprehensive treatment.