Chronic alcohol abuse, commonly known as alcoholism, refers to a disease in which the body becomes very dependent upon alcohol. The Mayo Clinic says that symptoms of chronic alcohol abuse include drinking in secret or alone, feeling a strong need to drink, irritability, and being unable to control the amount of alcohol consumed. Fortunately, some common drugs for chronic alcohol abuse exist to decrease these cravings.
Disulfiram
Disulfiram, commonly sold as Antabuse, is a medication that specifically treats chronic alcoholism. MedlinePlus notes that disulfiram creates such unpleasant side effects as a headache, chest pain, nausea, weakness, sweating and anxiety when alcohol is consumed. Disulfiram's less serious side effects include drowsiness, a headache, impotence, a headache and acne. Some of disulfiram's serious side effects include a poor appetite, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, and a lack of energy. It is important to phone a doctor when disulfiram leads to these effects. Taking such medications as warfarin, anticoagulants, isoniazid or metronidazole may require a decrease in disulfiram's dose. Disulfiram is a tablet taken daily. This medication produces its effects 10 minutes after consumption and can last up to one hour.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone, commonly sold as ReVia, is a narcotic medication that stops the effects of alcohol. Drugs.com says that naltrexone's less serious side effects include nervousness, irritability, muscle or joint aches, trouble sleeping, and fainting. Some of naltrexone's serious side effects include blurry vision, wheezing, difficulty breathing, hallucinations and mood changes. It is important to tell a doctor when naltrexone leads to these effects. Suffering from a bleeding disorder and kidney or liver disease may require a decrease in naltrexone's dose. Naltrexone is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
Acamprosate
Acamprosate, typically sold as Campral, is a medication used together with behavioral modification and counseling to help quit alcohol abuse. Drugs.com states that some of acamprosate's less serious side effects include diarrhea, constipation, trouble sleeping, sweating, a headache, and joint or muscle pain. Some of acamprosate's serious side effects include behavioral or mood changes, confusion, decreased urination, an irregular heartbeat, and severe depression or anxiety; it is important to contact a doctor if these side effects develop. Acamprosate is a tablet taken three times a day.
