Medicine to Stop Drinking Alcohol
There are different types of medications used to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD). Each medication type has its own effect in helping to treat AUD. It's important to note that these medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, so be sure to ask your doctor about them. Here are the different types of medications used to treat AUD:
Alcohol-Sensitizing Medications
Alcohol-sensitizing medications are medications used to discourage patients from drinking during their rehabilitation program. When combined with alcohol, these medications produce unpleasant effets, such as:
- Facial flushing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
An example of an alcohol–sensitizing medication is disulfiram. It's important to avoid any products that contain alcohol while taking these medications, as it can lead to severe reactions. Potential side effects of disulfiram include:
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
- Headache
- Metallic or garlic-like taste in the mouth
Anticraving Medications
Anticraving medications are medications to help reduce cravings for alcohol and can be used to maintain abstinence. Examples of anticraving medications include:
- Naltrexone
- Acamprosate
Before taking naltrexone, it’s important to tell your healthcare provider if you have any liver problems. Potential common side effects of naltrexone include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Although acamprosate is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to tell your healthcare provider about any kidney problems before you start taking this medication. Potential common side effects of acamprosate include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
Medications for Psychiatric Disorders
Medications for psychiatric (mental health) disorders occurring at the same time are used to treat both AUD and co-occurring psychiatric disorders like depression or anxiety. Antidepressants are a type of medication that are used for people with co-occuring AUD and psychiatric disorders.
It's important to discuss your medical history and any other medications you're taking with your doctor before starting antidepressants. Potential side effects may vary depending on the specific medication prescribed.
It's worth noting that while these medications have been used to treat AUD, their efficacy is limited and none have been shown to dramatically outperform placebo (inactive substance) in reducing AUD symptoms. Additionally, some of these medications are off-label use for AUD treatment. This means they are not specifically approved by the FDA for this purpose.
Remember to always consult with your healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication regimen for the treatment of AUD. They will be able to provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and circumstances.