Alcoholism is considered by the majority of the medical community to be a chronic disease, much like high blood pressure or diabetes. As a result, most treatment plans for alcoholism combine both short- and long-term approaches. In the short-term, many patients need to get over the physical addiction before they can rehabilitate their lives. Three medications are approved by the FDA for the treatment of alcoholism.
Naltrexone
According to MedlinePlus, one commonly prescribed medication for alcoholism is naltrexone. Naltrexone works by blocking some of the chemical signals in the brain that cause the nervous system to interpret alcohol use as pleasurable. As a result, alcoholic patients taking naltrexone can still consume alcohol and become intoxicated, but they will not have the same sense of euphoria and pleasure as a result of it. Naltrexone can be taken orally under the brand name ReVia or as a monthly injection (Vivitrol). Naltrexone is most effective when it is taken along with psychotherapy or behavioral therapy to help deal with the psychological aspect of alcoholism. Naltrexone only works well when it is taken on a regular basis, which is why many alcoholics who are just beginning naltrexone therapy prefer the injectable form. Naltrexone can cause fatigue, headache, nausea and vomiting. According to the "New York Times," it should not be given to patients who have used narcotics in the previous 7 to 10 days.
Disulfiram
Disulfiram is unique as a treatment for alcoholism in that it does not aim to reduce the urge to drink. Instead, disulfiram works as an aversion therapy. According to a Jan. 22, 2009 article in the "New York Times," disulfiram works because it can cause very discomforting side effects when it is combined with alcohol. It can interact with alcohol after just half of a glass of wine or half of a shot of liquor and cause severe nausea and vomiting, as well as a headache and flushing. One dose of disulfiram is typically effective for one to two weeks. The drug can help prevent alcoholics from drinking by conditioning them to associate alcohol consumption with nausea.
Acamprosate
Another medication that can be used to treat alcoholism is called acamprosate. Acamprosate prevents the brain from making some of the chemicals (including one called GABA) that help reinforce alcoholism. It can help patients with severe alcoholism drink less, and it is usually taken orally three times per day. Acamprosate can cause diarrhea and a headache as part of its side effects. Acamprosate is often more effective when it is used in concert with either naltrexone or disulfiram.
