None of the medications used to treat AUD have been proven completely safe during pregnancy or lactation, so they should be used cautiously in women of childbearing sober house age. Part of recovering from alcohol use disorder is changing old behaviors and routines. Some people may not provide the support you need to reach your goals.

• Additionally, the AHRQ says men are more likely to develop the disorder than women.
• Remember that changing deep habits is hard, takes time, and requires repeated efforts.

The INIA mechanism is an example of collaborative science, and has been essential for identifying immune targeting drugs and for advancing basic science research to improve human health. Because Naltrexone may interact with certain Opioids, patients should refrain from use of illegal Opioids and make sure their physician is aware of any medications they are taking. “Finding new medications for AUD offers hope for a future when fewer people suffer the worst consequences of this disorder,” commented Dr. Hall. “Given this is an old medication that has been used for decades in clinical practice for other indications, repurposing spironolactone allows us to move forward quickly to the next steps,” commented Dr. Leggio. This study emphasizes the importance of continuing research on existing medications.

Naltrexone (ReVia)

This medication blocks the “feel-good” response alcohol causes. Naltrexone may help reduce the urge to drink and prevent excessive alcohol consumption. Without the satisfying feeling, people with alcohol use disorder may be less likely to drink alcohol. Behavioral treatments are aimed at changing drinking behavior through counseling. They are led by health professionals and supported by studies showing they can be beneficial. Treatment for alcohol use disorder may include talk therapy (also called “psychotherapy”), support groups, medicines, or a combination of treatments.

Some people are at a higher risk for developing alcohol use disorder, including people who began drinking before they turned 15, those who binge drink, and those with a family history of alcohol misuse or mental health issues. Sometimes researchers find new uses for existing medications, which is helpful since they start from the point of already knowing potential side effects. A study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicates the heart medication spironolactone may be effective for patients with alcohol use disorder. Although naltrexone is widely used in the treatment of opioid addictions, it has many advantages for helping people detox from alcohol. Detoxing from alcohol is safest and most effective when completed under the care of medical professionals in an inpatient or outpatient rehab setting. During medical detox, nurses and doctors are able to keep track of your vital signs and adjust your treatment as necessary.

Medications Used to Treat Alcoholism

This medication works by blocking the body’s receptors that produce euphoric feelings when you drink. Naltrexone is a prescription medication for treating alcohol abuse disorders. Naltrexone can be a helpful part of a comprehensive recovery plan.

When their bodies don’t have alcohol, they experience withdrawal symptoms. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three medications for treating alcohol dependence, and others are being tested to determine whether they are effective. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs provide peer support for people quitting or cutting back on their drinking. Combined with treatment led by health professionals, mutual-support groups can offer a valuable added layer of support. Not all primary care doctors are familiar with medications to treat alcohol addiction. Here are the options to talk about with your doctor for withdrawal and long-term sobriety.

What to expect from your doctor

Naltrexone, an antagonist of opioid receptors in the brain, is a prescription medication that is available in oral (Revia) and long-acting injectable (Vivitrol) formulations. Both formulations are indicated for the treatment of alcohol use disorder, but only the long-acting injectable formulation is indicated for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Information about long-acting injectable naltrexone for the treatment opioid use disorder can be found in the section on medications for opioid use disorder. Recovering from alcoholism is a lifelong commitment that takes time and hard work. Get in touch with a treatment providers today to learn more about the recovery process.

The groups for family and friends listed below may be a good starting point. Caring for a person who has problems with alcohol can be very stressful. It is important that as you try to help your loved one, you find a way to take care of yourself as well. It may help to seek support from others, including friends, family, community, and support groups. If you are developing your own symptoms of depression or anxiety, think about seeking professional help for yourself. Remember that your loved one is ultimately responsible for managing his or her illness.