Alcoholism Medical Treatment:
Prescription Drug Options

In recent years, alcoholism medical treatment has continued to advance with the introduction of new drugs that are designed to enhance the success of rehabilitation and make it easier for alcoholics to remain sober over time.

Antabuse, or disulfiram, is the oldest treatment drug in use and helps serve as a consumption deterrent. While on the medication, people who drink have intense physical reactions that may include vomiting, sweating, throbbing headaches, chest pain, a rapid drop in blood pressure, and other symptoms.

Although a proven alcoholism medical treatment that works for many people, it does not stop the actual alcohol craving. Neither does it help with withdrawal symptoms. However, it can motivate alcoholics to stay away from drinking.

Another prescription drug that is sometimes for recovery is Naltrexone, which is a drug marketed as Revia or Depade and has an extended release form called Vivitrol.

This drug is administered when people have stopped drinking to help them to continue their sobriety. It blocks the pleasure people get from drinking alcohol.

The drug, Nalmefene, is sometimes used as an alternative to Naltrexone because it has not proven to cause liver problems and has longer lasting effects.

Campral, or acamprosate, is another drug options that works to cut down on the physical misery and uneasiness that occurs when people stop drinking.

The drug is designed to work after withdrawal and helps the body get back to normal. Campral is generally prescribed for up to a year after stopping drinking.

Topamax, or topimarate, is an anti-seizure medication that has recently had success as an alcoholism treatment. Unlike other drugs, it can be started while the person is still drinking.

Prescription drugs, when used in conjunction with a medically supervised comprehensive alcoholism treatment program, can play a pivotal role in an alcoholic’s ability to have a successful recovery and remain alcohol-free for the long term.

A qualified health care professional will determine when and which drugs are an appropriate complement to the recovery process.

Source: Article written by Vivian Villalba, http://www.add-articles.com/profile/Vivian-Villalba/13515, for www.freefromalcohol.com

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