🔑Naltrexone and acamprosate are two commonly prescribed medications for alcohol use disorder.
✅Psychosocial interventions like therapy and counseling are also recommended in addition to medication.
🔢Naltrexone can be taken orally once a day or administered as a monthly injection.
💊Acamprosate needs to be taken three times a day, which can be a challenge for some individuals.
👨⚕️Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication for alcohol use disorder.
Are prescription medications necessary for mild alcohol use disorder?
—For milder cases, prescription medications are not typically recommended. Therapy, counseling, and support groups are the primary interventions.
What are the common side effects of Naltrexone?
—Nausea, vomiting, and liver irritation are common side effects of Naltrexone. It is not recommended for individuals with acute hepatitis or those on opioids.
What is the mode of action of Naltrexone?
—Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors, reducing the reinforcing effects and cravings for alcohol.
Can a camperostate be used as an alternative treatment?
—Yes, acamprosate is an alternative first-line treatment for alcohol use disorder. It helps balance brain signals and has shown efficacy in reducing alcohol consumption.
What are the challenges of taking acamprosate?
—The main challenge of acamprosate is that it needs to be taken three times a day, which can affect compliance.
00:00Today's video covers medications for alcohol use disorder, specifically those that help reduce alcohol consumption, cravings, and increase sobriety.
03:39Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication that blocks opioid receptors, reducing the pleasurable effects of alcohol and cravings.
06:03Common side effects of Naltrexone include nausea, vomiting, and potential liver irritation, making it unsuitable for those with acute hepatitis or on opioids.
08:26Acamprosate is an alternative first-line treatment for alcohol use disorder. It helps balance brain signals, reducing alcohol cravings, and increasing continuous abstinence.
09:58Taking acamprosate three times a day can be a challenge, affecting compliance.
