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Medication Assisted Treatment for Alcohol

Medication-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

Have you made the brave decision to stop drinking and begin your journey toward recovery? This choice is one of the most significant steps you can take to improve your life and mental health. While the road may be challenging, there are effective options to support you— like medication-assisted treatment.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) plays a crucial role in your recovery from alcohol use disorder. Studies show that when medications like naltrexone or acamprosate are combined with behavioral therapy, the chances of achieving and maintaining sobriety increase significantly. For example, naltrexone not only reduces heavy drinking days but also enhances your overall quality of life by addressing alcohol cravings.

If you’re ready to start on the road to recovery and you’re looking for an alcohol rehab near you, we’ve got you covered. Explore our rehab directory and quit alcohol today.

The Importance of Comprehensive Treatment for Alcohol Abuse

It’s clear medications increase your chance of recovery from alcohol addiction, but it’s important to note that medication doesn’t cure alcoholism. Instead, it assists you in stopping drinking and staying sober. Medications should be used along with other treatments and programs to work effectively.

Let’s face it: whether you or someone you love is facing addiction, it’s not easy to understand the struggle and the ways your body is affected by the symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal after a detox. Consulting with a physician to discuss your medication options is the best way to get more information to help you recover.

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Medication Used During Medically Assisted Treatment for Alcohol

When you go to a rehab center and speak with an addiction specialist, they may put you on the MAT program, and this can involve the use of a variety of different medications. Let’s take a look at some of the medications available for alcohol use and how they work.

Antabuse (Disulfiram)

Antabuse (also known by its generic name, Disulfiram), was the first medication approved to treat addicts who abuse alcohol. Numerous studies have proven that Antabuse hasn’t only been effective in reducing cravings for alcohol but is also proven to reduce the risk of relapse as well. (This includes the risk of relapse in adolescent addicts).

How Does Disulfiram Work?

Disulfiram targets and interrupts how your body processes alcohol by blocking the oxidation of alcohol in your body—causing a build-up of acetaldehyde. So when alcohol is consumed, this buildup causes some unpleasant symptoms in your body.

The effects occur about ten minutes after alcohol enters your system, and they include:

  • Headache
  • Chest pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Mental confusion
  • Sweating
  • Flushing of the face
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Blurred vision
  • Anxiety

While Disulfiram doesn’t cure alcoholism, it certainly discourages people from wanting to drink and is likely to cause unpleasant side effects even if you consume only small quantities of alcohol.

Naltrexone

Naltrexone is an alternative medication to consider for alcoholism treatment. Unlike Disulfiram, oral Naltrexone doesn’t make you sick when you drink. Instead, it reduces the desires and the cravings of alcohol consumption. Does it work? Studies have shown that people who used Naltrexone as part of their treatment had increased abstinence rates over people who were not treated. Several studies indicate that Naltrexone dramatically reduces relapses and can be as effective as professional alcohol counseling.

How Does Naltrexone Work?

Naltrexone effectively blocks receptors in the brain that are responsible for making endorphins. In doing so, Naltrexone removes your ability to feel the rush from consuming alcohol or drugs. It can be taken in two different forms – (1) a daily pill or (2) an injection administered by a medical professional once a month. The injection form is referred to as Vivitrol, and it provides for extended release, which remains in your system and slowly helps treat alcohol dependence and will lead you to alcohol abstinence until your next dose.

Side Effects of Naltrexone

Many of the reported side effects from using Naltrexone are common and listed on the box of most over-the-counter medications. The most common side effects of Naltrexone, which only affects a small number of people, include:

  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Dizziness
  • Nervousness
  • Insomnia
  • Drowsiness
  • Anxiety

For most patients in studies, the side effects are mild and usually brief in duration. But always tell your doctor if you have any concerns or experience any side effects.

Acamprosate

Acamprosate is the most recent medication approved to treat alcohol dependency. It assists you in abstaining from alcohol by reducing the emotional discomfort and physical distress that is commonly experienced when people quit drinking.

Does it work?

Studies have found that the use of Acamprosate with patients who were highly motivated and committed to complete abstinence throughout the treatment had lower relapse risk than less motivated patients. However, as Acamprosate is a fairly new medication, research and studies related to its effectiveness in treating the symptoms of withdrawal are still inconclusive.

How Does Acamprosate Work?

Acamprosate works by assisting your brain to block opioid receptors, which causes reductions in craving and, in essence, restores the chemical balance in your brain. It can also reduce the anxiety, sleep disturbances, and sweating that commonly occur in the beginning stages of abstaining from alcohol use. This can be very helpful for heavy drinkers who have developed a physical dependence on alcohol.

Side Effects of Acamprosate

As with many drugs, the most common side effects of Acamprosate are:

  • Diarrhea
  • Intestinal cramps
  • Itchiness
  • Dizziness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Headache
  • Flatulence
  • Nausea
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have any questions, speaking to a medical professional is always best.

Sobrexa

Sobrexa is a liquid herbal solution that aids you in drinking less or quitting drinking altogether. It’s part of the Last Call program, an eight-week program designed to help people with alcohol cessation. The two main components of the Last Call program are liquid herbal solutions that you mix with water and consume periodically throughout the day. Sobrexa works over time and slowly helps people lose their desire to drink. Does it work? Sobrexa has an eighty-four percent success rate in aiding alcoholics to get and stay sober.

How Does Sobrexa Work?

Sobrexa contains daidzin, an organic substance found in the kudzu vine. It works by reducing the desire to over-drink alcohol. Kuduz vine contains several notable properties that can help an individual suffering from alcoholism to stop drinking. Sobrexa works by stopping alcohol-caused dopamine surges in the pleasure center of the brain, which will prevent the urge to drink alcohol because the individual is no longer experiencing pleasure from its use. This may be why Sobrexa can help people quit in such a short time.

Side Effects of Sobrexa

Sobrexa is a safe botanical medication for up to four months. Clinical studies have reported no side effects from its use. I’m sorry, but what? No side effects? This is hard to come by.

As with any medication, discuss Sobrexa with your medical professional to ensure that Sobrexa does not affect any pre-existing conditions you may have.

Medication Assisted Treatment for Alcohol Can Help in Combination With Behavioral Treatment

Alcohol addiction negatively affects so many aspects of your life, and without treatment, your addiction will continue to drive your alcohol abuse and possibly make it worse. The good news is research shows the effectiveness of medication-assisted treatment for alcohol.

You’re not out of options; taking any of these medications might be the extra help you need. In addition to medication, family therapy, and peer support are vital components of an effective MAT program. These therapies can provide the necessary emotional support for those facing co-occurring disorders, ensuring a more holistic recovery process.

Medication is highly effective when combined with counseling, support groups, and other treatments. Don’t wait another day. Talk to your doctor and get the help you need to take control of your life and quit alcohol today!

We’ve Helped Thousands of Individuals Overcome Drug and Alcohol Addiction

If you or a loved one are ready to overcome drug or alcohol abuse, our addiction specialists are here to guide you through every step. Many of our dedicated staff members are in long-term recovery themselves and understand firsthand the challenges of the recovery journey. This personal experience, combined with our professional expertise, allows us to offer compassionate, effective support tailored to your unique needs.
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FAQ

What medications are commonly used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for alcohol use disorder?

MAT for alcohol use disorder typically involves FDA-approved medications like naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram. These medications play a critical role in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to quit alcohol and stay sober. They are most effective when combined with behavioral therapy and counseling to address the psychological aspects of alcohol addiction.

Does medication-assisted treatment work to manage withdrawal symptoms from alcohol?

Medication-assisted treatment helps manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms by using medications that stabilize brain chemistry. For instance, naltrexone blocks opioid receptors, which can reduce cravings and the urge to drink alcohol. Acamprosate helps restore the chemical balance in the brain, alleviating anxiety and discomfort during the withdrawal phase. This comprehensive approach allows individuals to focus on recovery without the burden of severe withdrawal symptoms.

What are the benefits of combining medication with behavioral therapy in treating alcohol use disorder?

Combining medication with behavioral therapy significantly enhances the effectiveness of alcohol use disorder treatment. Research shows that this integrated approach leads to higher rates of abstinence and lower chances of relapse. Behavioral therapy provides the tools to cope with triggers and stressors, while medications help manage physical dependence. Together, they create a robust framework for lasting recovery from alcohol abuse.

Dr Kate Smith

Clinical Reviewer

Dr. Kate Smith is a licensed professional and has worked in the mental health and substance abuse disorder fields for over 10 years. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Florida Atlantic University, graduating magna cum laude from her class. She obtained her Masters in Social Work (MSW) at Barry University in an accelerated program.

More about Dr. Kate Smith

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