Medications used in the treatment of alcoholism

January 8th, 2010 | Author: admin

Medications Used In Treatment Of Alcoholism

Many alcohol addiction treatments exist. Inpatient, Outpatient and residential and of course the well known “Twelve Step” programs such as AA. One option that may not be as well known is that of treating alcohol addiction with medications.

Several oral medications have been approved and have been shown to be effective in controlling alcohol dependence. Disulfiram, naltrexone and acamprosate as they are called by their generic names. An inject able form of naltrexone is also available and has a long acting effect.

Medications for alcohol addiction treatment work in several ways depending upon which medication is used and the stage of the alcoholic’s addiction. For example, disulfiram discourages drinking because when alcohol is introduced into the system of the patient taking this drug, he become violently ill. Such physical discomfort is a strong deterrent.

Naltrexone can greatly reduce the cravings of a patient who has stopped drinking and acamprosate is used primarily to treat the depression and anxiety that often follows when a patient stops drinking for a long period of time. All three approved medications have been a helpful aid in keeping the patient from relapsing into heavy drinking and remaining abstinent.

Other medications can be used to treat the symptoms of withdrawal such as insomnia, shakiness, anxiety, depression and mood swings. However, it must be understood that there is no such thing as a “cure” for alcoholism and no “magic pill” that will instantly make abstaining from alcohol a piece of cake. Long term abstinence requires a strong commitment to getting well.

Can medications alone help in the recovery process? Not likely, but again the outcome would depend on the severity of the disease. How successful alcohol addiction treatment is depends on the patients particular needs and length of illness. Private counseling sessions along with group therapy or a positive Twelve Step program can compliment the use of medications and make recovery smoother and longer lasting with less chance of relapse.

Alcohol and drug abuse more often than not are triggered be deep emotional wounds or issues that have never been dealt with. Clinical depression is responsible for 80% of those who suffer from alcohol addiction. Others grew up in a home where one or both parents was an alcoholic or drug addict.

Until the patient can derecognize and define the moments the preceded his desire to abuse alcohol any treatment will simply be a stop gap. Long term sobriety is easier to accomplish when the patient through counseling and group therapy can understand his illness and the emotional and environmental triggers that encourage his drinking.

Alcohol addiction can be successfully treated. Recovering alcoholics can lead wonderful, productive lives again and families can be put back together and learn to function in a healthy manner. Programs such as Al-Anon and Alateen are excellent for helping family and friends of a person suffering from addiction, to be able to cope.

Researching and mapping out a treatment plan that works in harmony with the needs of the patient, and the loving support of family and friends are the key to getting well for life.

For help finding the best Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation center for your specific needs please call:

1-877-744-3536