What are the remedies for alcohol. The best remedies for alcohol addiction. Alcohol aversion pills

Alcohol addiction is treated with medication in various ways and has many advantages compared to other methods (traditional medicine, hypnotic encoding). Traditional medicine recipes require long-term use and do not promise results in the short term. Hypnosis coding is not always successful, and if done incorrectly, it is fraught with adverse changes in the psyche.
Drug treatment of alcohol addiction with a properly selected complex is absolutely safe and gives positive results fairly quickly. A big plus is that alcoholism medications can be used at home, and even without the knowledge of the patient. From our article you will learn what means modern medicine offers for the treatment of alcohol addiction.

Drugs for the treatment of alcohol dependence

For use at home, narcologists recommend drugs, depending on the purpose: removing a hangover, reducing craving for alcohol-containing drinks, forming an aversion to alcohol. Mostly tablets or drops are used, which are taken according to the prescribed scheme. The recommended dose should not be increased because many drugs have side effects that increase in risk as the dosage increases.

Pills for alcoholism

Tableted preparations for alcoholism differ in their complex action: they stop the alcohol syndrome, reduce the harmful effects of ethanol on the body, restore organ functions, and cause an aversion to alcohol.

• "Esperal" - the main component of the drug - disulfiram - blocks the enzymes responsible for the absorption of ethanol. As a result, alcohol intake causes negative reactions on the physical level. There are nausea, urge to vomit, the heartbeat becomes frequent, there is a feeling of fear. The repetition of such situations leads to the development of a persistent aversion to alcoholic beverages.
• “Teturam” is a drug that has a similar effect with Esperal tablets, but is more “hard”. Alcohol addicts, in addition to negative physical symptoms, often feel increased arousal, a strong fear of death.
• "Naltrexone" - tablets that block the feeling of pleasure from the state of intoxication. Alcohol addicts, not getting the expected satisfaction from drinking alcohol, gradually stop using them. There are relatively few contraindications for use, but the regimen is prescribed only by a narcologist.
• "Lidevin" - the drug is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of relapses in chronic alcoholism. Attention! It is used exclusively under the supervision of a narcologist due to possible serious complications. Simultaneous intake with alcohol can lead to neurological disorders, cardiovascular collapse, coma!!!
• (effervescent tablets) - are used to eliminate withdrawal symptoms in hangover syndrome, normalize the psycho-emotional state, get rid of alcohol addiction. Natural composition, minimum contraindications, high absorption, fast action are the great advantages of the drug. The course of admission is designed for a month.

The downside of pills for alcoholism is a fairly wide range of contraindications. Therefore, you can not prescribe a course of treatment for yourself or your family on your own. Self-medication is especially dangerous in the presence of any diseases.

The choice of pills should be made only by a doctor, even if the patient does not agree to the treatment of alcohol addiction. Discuss the possibility of using certain drugs with a narcologist beforehand.

Drops from alcoholism

Preparations in the form of drops have an effect similar to tablet forms, but are easier to digest, absorbed faster, act more quickly. The drip form is more convenient if the patient refuses treatment completely or at any stage. Among the most effective drip agents:

• - drops block the craving for alcohol at the physical level. It is used to prevent the development of pathologies provoked by prolonged alcohol consumption. The remedy eliminates alcohol intoxication, cleanses the body of toxins, restores the affected organs, and has an antidepressant effect. Judging by the numerous reviews of narcologists and patients, the remedy is able to get rid of alcoholism in 20-30 days (1 course). Even drunken alcoholics with more than 10 years of experience quit drinking once and for all.
• Colme is an over-the-counter drug recommended for outpatient use. Drinking alcohol while taking the drug causes nausea, tachycardia, hyperthermia. The feeling of anxiety increases, the patient is afraid to drink alcohol. Means without taste and smell, taken twice a day. The drug is temporarily not supplied to the Russian Federation
• "Proproten-100" - the drug is used to treat alcoholism, to help with severe alcohol intoxication. The drug improves mood, reduces the desire to drink. It is desirable to add drops to fragrant food or drinks to eliminate the smell of ethyl alcohol.
• "Alkotoksik" - drops that cause indifference to alcohol. They prevent the occurrence of depressive states, promote the removal of toxins, activate the immune system. Taking the drug stimulates the production of dopamine, thereby eliminating the cause of alcohol addiction.

Drops from alcoholism are ineffective at advanced stages, with a severe withdrawal syndrome. In these cases, you should consult a narcologist to choose more effective drugs. If there are diseases of the cardiovascular system, psychosomatic disorders, pathologies of the endocrine system, disorders in the functioning of the kidneys, liver, and a number of other pathological conditions, it is impossible to treat alcoholism with these drugs.

Effective drugs for alcoholism without the knowledge of the patient

If a husband, son, father or other close relative, abusing alcohol, refuses to be treated, drugs can be given to the patient without knowledge. There are three groups of drugs: reducing hangover syndrome, reducing cravings for alcohol, causing aversion to alcoholic beverages.

The choice is determined by the stage of alcoholism, the behavior of the alcohol addict, the presence of concomitant diseases. It is strictly forbidden at home without the appointment of a narcologist to use "heavy artillery" - drugs that cause symptoms of intoxication. Successfully used for treatment:

• - as part of the drops, natural ingredients that cause aversion to alcohol. The use of alcoholic beverages after taking drops is accompanied by negative reactions: nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, tachycardia, stomach cramps. There is a fear of drinking alcohol, a persistent disgust appears. A month of taking the drug significantly reduces dependence on alcohol without harm to the body.
• Alco-Stop - dietary supplement is used to relieve hangover syndrome, as an addition to the alcoholism treatment complex. Form - powder or drops. In the composition - plant extracts, succinic acid. The tool effectively eliminates signs of alcohol intoxication, helps to remove toxic substances, improves metabolic processes. Physical craving for alcohol disappears without depression, other emotional manifestations. It is recommended to use twice a day. In severe cases, the dose is increased (maximum - 6 sachets of powder, 4 drops).
• - a herbal remedy. Available in the form of drops and powder, it dissolves easily in liquid. In addition to the disappearance of the desire to drink, patients note a general improvement in well-being. The work of the internal organs is normalized, the mood rises, the manifestations of the withdrawal syndrome disappear. The drug is taken once a day, the effect is noticeable immediately. There are few contraindications, the remedy can be used in diabetes.

Relatives want to help the alcoholic and are ready to use any means to pull the person out of the abyss of alcoholism, including mixing medications without his knowledge. Often such treatment has positive results: the alcoholic stops drinking alcohol completely or drinks less, behavior changes for the better. But this is usually a temporary effect if the person does not have an inner desire to stop drinking.
Drugs used without the knowledge of the patient cannot completely cure addiction. After stopping the intake, the craving for alcohol usually returns.

To date, there is an extensive list of drugs intended for the treatment and prevention of alcoholism. They are available in the form of drops, tablets or injections. Some can be used without the knowledge of the patient. The most famous drugs include medicines called Disulfiram, Teturam, Alkostop, Alkoprost and Alkobarrier, Proproten-100 and Antakson are also popular. Disulfiram is the most toxic drug and has the most side effects.

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  Types of drugs

  Treatment of alcoholism should be comprehensiveand prescribed by a narcologist. To get rid of This disease is mandatory use of medicines, which differ in the method of exposure.

  The main groups of drugs for alcoholism:

  1. 1. Aversive.
  2. 2. Blockers of alcoholic pleasure.
  3. 3. Drugs that reduce the craving for alcohol.

  

  Aversive drugs

  Medicines of this group form an aversion to alcohol. Against the background of their intake, the strongest reaction of the body occurs every time you drink alcohol. Tablets of this type should be taken regularly, otherwise the protective properties of the medicines will stop. There are also long-acting products, the effect of which lasts from 6 months to a year.

  

  Disulfiram

  It ranks first among drugs for getting rid of alcoholism. When using it, the accepted ethanol is transformed into acetaldehyde. This toxic substance can cause a sharp deterioration in well-being. Vomiting, headache, panic attacks and tachycardia may occur. It becomes difficult for an alcoholic to drink and he refuses to drink alcohol on his own. This remedy is of domestic production, they were treated back in Soviet times. After taking such a medicine together with alcohol, there are strong side effects, as a result of which the mere thought of vodka causes an attack of vomiting.

  
  

  Disulfiram is the most affordable alcohol remedy. The drug is toxic, so the treatment is carried out in small courses. With prolonged use, the liver is destroyed, and diseases of the nervous system occur. Without the knowledge of the patient, it is impossible to add tablets to food, since the drug has a specific taste and is difficult to mix with food or drinks. After a while, the desire to drink returns to alcoholics, but patients who have experienced all the "charms" of adverse reactions after using disulfiram refuse to take it again. The Russian analogue of this medicine is Teturam, the import is Antabuse. They contain the same active ingredient. Their prices are higher than the Soviet counterpart.

  

  Esperal

  The French analogue is Esperal tablets. Its main feature is a high degree of purity, so its side effects are lower. Otherwise, it is identical to Disulfiram. To achieve an aversion to alcohol, the drug is taken once a day. The first results are noticeable after 10-12 hours. Over time, a person will lose the feeling of pleasure from drinking alcohol.

  Lidevin

  Release form - tablets. The composition of the product includes disulfiram and vitamins. The latter are added to it in order to reduce the effect of the main active substance on the human nervous system. The drug is well tolerated by patients, but has the same side effects as the traditional medicine. It can be used for a long time.

  Colme

  

  Colme is a famous Spanish drug for alcohol. Produced in the form of a solution. The main active ingredient is cyanamide. This is what causes alcohol intolerance. The drug is similar to Disulfiram, but acts softer. Colme is a non-toxic drug. Treatment lasts up to 6 months. The clear liquid is tasteless and odorless and can be added to food or drink. The only drawback is the high price of the drug. Packing Colme is enough for a month of use. The effect will come in an hour after reception. This solution received a huge amount of positive feedback in many countries and was included in the list of essential drugs for getting rid of alcoholism.

  Tetlong-250

  

  The agent is administered intramuscularly. The active ingredient is disulfiram. As a result of the use of the drug, an accumulation of the drug is formed under the skin of the patient, which acts for a long time after the injection. It is used once every 20 days. To achieve a lasting effect, a course of 10 injections is prescribed. When combining alcohol with Tetlong, strong adverse reactions occur.

  Alcoholic Pleasure Blockers

  

  Drugs in this group block the euphoria and narcotic sensations of pleasure from ethanol. The drugs are made on the basis of naltrexone. These include Vivitrol, Antakson, Prodexoton. This means of prolonged action, designed to eliminate the causes of alcohol consumption.

  Against the background of treatment with these drugs, the alcoholic loses the incentive to drink, as pleasant sensations disappear, and the severe consequences of taking alcoholic beverages are felt much more strongly. While weakening alcohol pleasure, these drugs do not completely eliminate it, so you should not count on a 100% positive effect from their use.

  Drugs to reduce alcohol craving

  
  

  Among the well-known drugs that reduce the irresistible craving for alcohol is Proproten-100. It belongs to homeopathic.

  

  For these purposes, the Italian remedy Metadoxil is also used. It has been used since the treatment of hangovers.

  Acamprosate

  The drug is manufactured in Europe. It has proven effectiveness in the fight against alcoholism. The medicine is available in tablets and helps to increase the duration of remission in the patient. The agent exhibits a pronounced anti-relapse activity, it is prescribed after stopping the hangover syndrome. Its active substance is not metabolized and does not react with other medicines and alcohol. This treatment is one of the safest. The practice of its use in conjunction with disulfiram therapy is known. Even if a relapse occurs, this will not be a reason for its cancellation.

  Alkostop

  

  This well-known drug is recommended by Elena Malysheva. This is the latest development of modern pharmaceuticals. Clinical trials have shown high efficiency (96% positive results, of which 77% - a complete rejection of alcohol in one month). The medicine consists of natural ingredients. Has no contraindications. The tool effectively relieves cravings for alcohol, improves the functioning of the heart and liver, which suffer from the intake of alcoholic beverages. The composition includes succinic acid, vitamin B6, fibregam, artichoke and motherwort extract. After its use, the toxic effect of ethyl alcohol decreases, the work of the heart improves, alcoholic psychosis and craving for drinking decrease, toxins are removed and the function of the gastrointestinal tract, liver cells and nervous system is restored. The complex action of the drug helps to give up alcohol and return to a full life.

  AlcoProst

  The medicine is available in the form of drops. The liquid has no taste and smell, which allows you to quietly add it to the patient's drink. The drug acts on the body gently and does not violate natural processes, has no contraindications and side effects. Due to the strong effect of the natural components that make up its composition, in just 30 days you can get rid of cravings for alcohol. AlcoProst includes coprinus, beaver musk, artemia concentrate, mint, lovage, laurel, thyme. These substances cause a strong aversion to alcohol. They also restore nerves.

  The drug is taken 3 times a day, 10 drops. They are added to drinks or any dishes. It is necessary to strictly adhere to the dosage. The effect of the reception can be quickly noticed. If the patient drinks alcohol, his health will worsen. There will be nausea, vomiting and dizziness. Convulsions and rapid heart rate may occur. Thus, an aversion to alcohol begins to appear, and over time, the desire to drink becomes less and less.

  Alco Barrier

  

  This medicine relieves addiction in a short time, is a complex drug, helps to cope not only with alcoholism, but also strengthens the body and removes toxins and toxins, protects the immune system and restores the functioning of the nervous system. Alcobarrier consists of 95% natural ingredients. It consists of:

  • Acacia resin - removes the decay products of alcohol from the body, toxins and toxins. It normalizes the work of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Motherwort - soothes the nervous system.
  • Artichoke extract - reduces cravings for alcohol.
  • Vitamin B6 - compensates for the lack of trace elements in the body, has a positive effect on the mental state of the patient.
  • Succinic acid - helps to cope with a hangover, improves the functioning of blood vessels and the heart, and removes toxins.

  The drug is available in the form of drops. It is easy to prepare a drink: the liquid quickly dissolves in water, then it is ready to drink. Take the remedy 2 times a day, 2 sachets. The course of treatment is 30 days. Improvement of the condition occurs quite quickly (after 3-5 days from the start of the reception).

  This medication has its drawbacks. The first is the high price. The second is individual intolerance. Despite the natural composition, an allergic reaction is possible.

  According to research results, in 75% of cases, the condition of patients improves and cravings for alcohol decrease. In 25%, patients stop drinking completely. During treatment with this drug, the alcoholic loses the desire to drink the forbidden drink. The liver is restored, the general well-being of a person becomes better. Toxins are quickly eliminated from the body. There is a beneficial effect on the nervous system.

  The composition of the drug includes only natural ingredients, so the medicine is easily tolerated. It includes succinic acid and fibergam. They normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and the digestive system, improve cardiac activity, and also remove the hangover syndrome. Artichoke helps the body resist alcohol addiction. Motherwort relaxes and calms, lowers the overall level of intoxication during alcoholism.

  The drug helps to easily get out of a hangover and restore the body.

  Means such as Alkoprost and Alkobarrier affect the body in a complex way:

  • They help to completely overcome the craving for alcohol. Many are disgusted even by the smell of alcohol.
  • With regular use, the nervous system normalizes, healthy sleep returns, hand tremor stops, which most alcoholics suffer from.

As you know, alcohol addiction is based on a complex process of disturbances in the functioning of the enzyme system that regulates the utilization of alcohol-containing substances. Such alcoholic fermentopathy is an incurable condition, so there is no universal cure for alcoholism. A person suffering from this disorder, every time he drinks alcohol, exposes his body to the effects of poison. It slowly destroys his internal organs, changes his psyche and destroys his intellect.

The first target of alcohol is the human central nervous system, which reacts very sharply to alcohols. As a result of the detrimental effect of toxins on the brain, an alcoholic quickly develops symptoms of encephalopathy with impaired motor function, sensitivity, memory, speech, and the like. Unfortunately, modern medicine does not have methods to cure a patient from alcoholic fermentopathy. But there are many therapeutic ways to help a person overcome alcohol addiction, once and for all getting rid of drunkenness and harmful addiction.

It is important to understand that alcohol addiction treatment will be successful only if the person himself wants to get rid of the disease. With this scenario, doctors prescribe to the patient an intensive course of complex therapy aimed at eliminating the desire to drink alcohol. In practice, the treatment of alcoholism is implemented with the help of medications, which must be combined with psychotherapy sessions. It is this approach that will achieve the desired result and save a sick person from an addiction that destroys his body and mind.

Basic principles of drug therapy

Treatment of mental disorders and reduction of the pharmacological effect of alcohol

The list of basic measures for the treatment of alcoholism includes the treatment of mental disorders provoked by alcohol intake. That is why it is customary to combine drugs for alcoholism with the appointment of antidepressants and tranquilizers. With the help of new treatment regimens, doctors are able to choose for their patients the most effective medicine for the prevention and treatment of alcoholic psychosis, depression, insomnia, and the like, which will allow a person to maintain common sense and overcome the desire to drink alcohol.

Today, drugs for alcoholism on the shelves of pharmacies are presented in a wide range. Most of them are positioned by manufacturers as effective remedies for alcohol addiction, although in fact they have nothing to do with the treatment of alcoholism and anti-alcohol drugs. These drugs can only reduce the pharmacological effect of ethyl alcohol on the body, that is, they act as a kind of antidote for alcohol poisoning.

In any case, it is important to understand that drugs for the treatment of alcoholism are not a salvation from the disease. Each remedy for drinking is a tool in the hands of the most addicted person, allowing him to get on the right track and put an end to addiction. Armed with some of the latest drugs, it is impossible to deprive an alcoholic of the desire to drink. This also requires the desire of the person himself to return to a sober lifestyle. Success from taking drugs for the treatment of alcoholism will be ensured only if the patient has consciously made a choice and firmly decided to give up alcohol forever.

The choice of pills for alcohol addiction is great. But which ones to choose to definitely help? This is a very relevant question. The main thing in the treatment of alcoholism is complex therapy, and it is better if it is prescribed by a narcologist. Only a specialist can choose the appropriate treatment. Many anti-alcohol drugs can only be bought with a prescription.

Characteristics and principles of anti-alcohol therapy

The big difficulty lies in the fact that not all alcoholics consider themselves ill, so they simply do not agree to therapy in special clinics or under the supervision of a doctor. This often leads to the fact that the relatives of the patients are trying to find a medicine that can be given without the consent of the drinker. The drugs are mixed with food or drink, and the alcoholic is not even aware that he is taking them. But therein lies the great danger. Some drugs are so strong that when mixed with alcohol, they can cause serious consequences for the health and even life of a person. Therefore, with self-medication, you need to be very careful.

To understand how anti-alcohol therapy works, and what directions exist in the treatment of alcoholism today, it is necessary to consider the main modern drugs used in the fight against alcoholism.

In the fight against such a serious disease as alcoholism, the main thing is not only to remove dependence on alcohol, but also to remove the negative conditions that necessarily accompany the disease. This may be a mental disorder or a violation in the work of internal organs, etc. A complete therapy should include not only drugs that reduce cravings for alcohol and cause intolerance to it, but also drugs to stabilize the patient's psyche. Drugs can also be prescribed for the treatment of pathologies that manifest themselves against the background of alcoholism. There can be a lot of options.

Stages of therapy

Complex therapy usually takes place in several stages:

1. Taking drugs that should change the body's response to alcohol. Here it is necessary to reduce the alcoholic's craving for alcohol or to arouse disgust for it. These may be drugs based on disulfiram or naltrecosne.
2. A decrease in the amount or complete exclusion of alcohol can cause the development of an abstinence syndrome, the symptoms of which are similar to poisoning (dizziness, nausea, vomiting, general weakness). If the patient has symptoms of the disease, then the neurologist will prescribe drugs to alleviate the condition.
3. Alcoholism is often accompanied by the development of various mental disorders, without the treatment of which it is impossible to overcome the addiction.
4. Medicines that should neutralize or at least reduce the negative effect of ethanol on internal organs. At this stage, the treatment will be aimed at reducing the intoxication of the body.

Each stage of complex therapy will solve intermediate tasks in order to eventually defeat alcohol addiction.

All drugs that can cause a change in the body's response to alcohol are divided into 2 groups:

• causing aversion to alcohol;
• suppressing the desire to drink.

The drugs of the first group will block the action of acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which causes poisoning of the body with all its manifestations. This situation reduces the pleasure of drinking alcohol, which in the long run will cause disgust for it. Other drugs act on the basic metabolic processes, reducing cravings for alcohol on a psychological level.

Drugs that reduce alcohol cravings

Medicines in this group should cause intolerance to alcohol, as well as completely remove the feeling of euphoria after drinking it. Anti-alcohol pills will be aimed at blocking the possibility of obtaining pleasure, which means that a person can drink, but there will no longer be the same feelings of intoxication. As a result, the craving for alcohol will gradually decrease. Drugs that reduce cravings for alcohol:

1. Proproten-100. The medicine is well studied and will help with a hangover syndrome. It can also be used in the treatment of chronic alcoholism (will prevent breakdowns). Often used for withdrawal symptoms. As a result of course therapy, there is a decrease in the manifestations of psychopathological disorders (anxiety, insomnia, irritability, etc.), somatovegetative disorders (weakness, headache, sweating, etc.) disappear. Of the contraindications - the period of pregnancy and lactation. Of the advantages - an affordable price.
2. Metadoxil is a drug of Italian development, which is presented on the market in the form of a solution for injection or in the form of tablets. Effective in chronic alcoholism. Can be used for intoxication during an exacerbation, with withdrawal symptoms. Among the undesirable consequences is the development of allergic reactions. It is not recommended to use the product for pregnant and lactating women.
3. Acamprosate. Pills from alcoholism differ in that they are not addictive. Take as directed, usually 3 times a day. The result will be visible after the course. With a hangover syndrome, they are not used due to low efficiency. The main task of the drug is to suppress the desire for drunkenness. Side effects: stomach discomfort, loss of appetite, weakness, dizziness and others.
4. Colme. The tool will help from breakdowns, often used in chronic alcoholism. Subject to all the recommendations in the instructions, adverse reactions rarely develop. With prolonged use of the drug, monitoring of thyroid function is mandatory. Contraindications: violation of the functions of the liver, heart, respiratory tract, kidneys, pregnancy and lactation. It is forbidden to use simultaneously with alcohol.

Drugs that reduce cravings can be very effective in combating alcoholism.

Drugs that cause aversion to alcohol

The main active ingredient is disulfiram, which stimulates complete alcohol intolerance, and not just suppresses the feeling of pleasure. During therapy, even a small dose of an alcoholic beverage can cause symptoms of severe intoxication, and a dose of 50 ml can already be lethal. It is in connection with this that such drugs for the treatment of alcohol dependence are not recommended to be used without the consent of the patient. The result may be unpredictable. Medicines in this group are not dispensed without a prescription.

Usually, disulfiram-based drugs are used for inpatient treatment in clinics, it is used for coding. In this case, the patient is told about the possible consequences and after the administration of the medicine they are given an alcohol test. The microdose of alcohol is very small, but even in this case, a person will be able to feel the consequences.

Use pills that cause aversion to alcohol should be used with caution, as there is a whole list of contraindications:

• diabetes;
• tuberculosis;
• liver failure;
• convulsive syndrome;
• pregnancy, lactation, etc.

Such drugs can help stop drinking, but only for as long as the person is coded or taking the medication. The further outcome will depend on the person himself and the reasons for which he began therapy. If the drinker was forced into treatment in such a radical way, then most likely he will return to drinking alcohol again. This is due to the fact that a person abstained only out of fear, and not out of his own convictions. But there may be another outcome. Long-term abstinence, combined with psychological help, can permanently rid a person of the desire to drink.

Among the most popular products that you can buy at a pharmacy, there are:

• Esperal;
• Torpedo;
• Barrier;
• Caprinol and others.

Due to the fact that the unregulated use of these drugs has very serious consequences, only the doctor should choose the dosage and treatment regimen.

Principles of complex treatment

In order to give up alcohol without aggression and other negative manifestations for oneself and others, and after treatment, not to return to alcoholic beverages again, the main thing is to use an integrated approach. In this perspective, the psychological aspect is very important and occupies a significant place in the entire process of recovery.

For a stable result, in addition to anti-alcohol drugs, treatment should include:

• taking drugs that accelerate the elimination of alcohol and reduce intoxication of the body;
• taking vitamin complexes;
• taking psychotropic drugs (prescribed by a doctor, as there are many side effects);
• psychological help to the patient.

It is better if the disease is detected at an early stage. Considering the specifics of complex therapy, it is required to highlight its main provisions:

• at the initial stage, the body is cleansed of toxins;
• it is required to arouse an aversion to alcohol and weaken the pleasure of its use;
• work with a psychotherapist.

It will depend on the last stage whether the patient returns to drunkenness or forgets about alcohol forever. At this stage, the patient identifies and realizes the primary causes of alcoholism and binges. A doctor should help a person learn to live soberly, not forgetting the joys of life.

In short: The action of most drugs for alcoholism is based on the fact that they block the processing of alcohol in the body for a long time, and thereby cause unpleasant sensations from alcohol instead of pleasure. There are, however, substitution therapy drugs that help to survive withdrawal, as well as opium receptor blockers. Popular antidepressants are also used in the treatment of alcoholism. In this article, the narcologist comments on all popular drugs.

The advantages of drug treatment of alcoholism include, first of all, the lack of impact on the human psyche. It's no secret that many have probably heard about the changes in a person after insufficiently competently carried out coding. It happens that people break loose, become completely unbearable, despotic, extremely irritable. The only drawback of drug treatment is that it addresses the consequences of addictive behavior rather than the underlying cause.

There are many different pills for alcoholism.

The conclusion suggests itself: to achieve a positive therapeutic effect, an integrated approach to solving this problem is necessary. If a patient is given a pill for alcoholism, then this should be associated with rehabilitation, psychotherapeutic assistance, if you like, a means of spiritual rebirth. And we must clearly imagine that "magic wands" are only in fairy tales. To cope with drunkenness requires a long, painstaking work of three parties: the doctor, the patient and his relatives. And these three sides should not work like the swan, cancer and pike from the well-known fable.

The selection of the safest method of treatment should be within the competence of a psychiatrist-narcologist.

Disulfiram (Teturam, Antabuse, Abstinil)

Perhaps the most famous drug for alcoholism. How does he work?

The action of this drug for alcoholism is based on blocking the enzymes responsible for the breakdown of alcohol in the blood. As a result of taking disulfiram, the oxidation of alcohol is inhibited in the phase when it turns into the substance acetaldehyde (aldehyde of acetic acid), and remains on it. This leads to extremely unpleasant sensations (nausea, dizziness, palpitations, fever, headache). Each intake of alcohol leads to torment, and the patient develops a conditioned reflex.

The drug is very toxic: with prolonged use it can cause hepatitis - liver damage and polyneuritis - damage to the nervous system, so the treatment is carried out in short cycles.

It happens that relatives of an alcoholic mix it into food, but it is well recognized due to the metallic taste.

On the basis of disulfiram, a lot of drugs for alcoholism, intended for intravenous administration, have been produced. Who has not heard such names as "Torpedo", SIT, NIT, AKAT, etc. The duration of these drugs for alcoholism is usually around six months.

Disulfiram preparations work best in combination with psychological techniques. How to do it, .

Esperal

This drug for alcoholism is the same French-made disulfiram. Better purified, so the incidence of side effects is somewhat lower. A special sterile form of the drug is produced for "hemming" or "sewing". Implanted pills for alcoholism gradually dissolve in the body, maintaining a constant concentration of the drug in the blood.

In recent years, pills, with which the body sometimes fought either by forming a capsule around them or by rejecting them from the body, have been replaced by an injectable form of this drug for alcoholism in the form of an emulsion that is injected subcutaneously.

Lidevin

This drug for alcoholism is a combination of disulfiram and two vitamins (adenine and nicotinamide). Vitamins are added in order to at least partially reduce the toxic effects of disulfiram on the nervous system. The drug is better tolerated than traditional disulfiram, but in general it has all the same disadvantages.

Tetlong - 250

Drug for alcoholism, intended for intramuscular injection. It is disulfiram with delayed absorption. After an injection, a depot is created in the tissues, as a result, a constant concentration of disulfiram in the body is maintained. Treatment with Tetlong is better tolerated, although the side effects of disulfiram could not be bypassed or leveled.

Colme

Spanish drug for alcoholism, produced in the form of a solution. The kit includes 4 ampoules of the drug and an empty bottle with a pipette. The active ingredient of "Colme" is cyanamide, which, in the presence of alcohol in the body, has an effect similar to that of disulfiram. The drug is non-toxic, it can be used up to 6 months without harm to health.

In addition, the drug has no color, taste and smell, which allows you to add it to food or drinks (only not hot!) Without the knowledge of patients, although this is not welcomed by law.

Antidepressants as a cure for alcoholism. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

As practice shows, people with low basal levels of serotonin most often resort to the help of alcohol (read more about this in a separate article). Serotonin is not the “happiness hormone” as it is called in the magazines. First of all, it is a neurotransmitter, that is, a chemical substance with which brain cells exchange information. And he is responsible not only and not so much for happiness, but for a huge number of different emotions and states. Including it is established that serotonin is involved in the reinforcing effects of alcohol. Low levels of serotonin lead to impulsive actions, often leading to alcoholism.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a modern group of antidepressants used (among other things) as a cure for alcoholism. Thanks to their action, the amount of serotonin transmitted from cell to cell increases (to put it simply), and this leads to an even mood, a decrease in anxiety, vital anguish, and apathy.

The most famous representatives of this group are: fluoxetine (Prozac, Portal, Prodep, Fontex, Seromex, Seronil, Sarafem), Paroxetine (Paxil, Rexetin, Paxet, Seroxat, Aropax), Citalopram (Celexa, Cipramil, Emocal, Sepram), Escitalopram ( lexapro, cipralex), sertraline (zoloft, lustral, stimuloton), fluvoxamine (fevarin, luvox, favoxyl, faverin).

The most common side effects of SSRIs include: insomnia, akathisia (restless restlessness), extrapyramidal disorders (increased parkinsonism or its appearance, increased muscle tone, in particular, chewing), headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, lack or decrease in appetite, asthenia (physical weakness), increased fatigue, drowsiness, tremor (trembling), sweating. Irritability, aggressiveness, irritability and nervousness are also possible.

Please note: Antidepressants should not be combined with alcohol. For more information about what it threatens and what kind of break you need to take between taking them,.

Opioid receptor blockers as a cure for alcoholism

Opioid receptor blockers prevent an increase in the concentration of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the so-called "reward pathway" in the brain. As a result, when taking the next dose of alcohol, euphoria does not occur, which makes drunkenness meaningless: it’s the same as pouring vodka into a bucket.

The most famous representatives of this pharmacological group are: naltrexone (antaxon, revia, naltrexone FV) is available in the form of capsules for daily intake or according to the scheme; prodetoxone (long-acting form of naltrexone) - tablets for alcoholism, intended for "suturing" subcutaneously, which significantly lengthens the duration of the drug.

Short-acting drugs of this group - naloxone, narcan, narcanti are used only in cases of acute poisoning with ethyl alcohol.

In recent years, the intramuscular injection of Vivitrol (long-acting naltrexone, produced in a sterile vial complete with a solvent) has become widespread, which simplifies its administration (no need to perform an operation, as is the case with prodetoxone). Produced by Johnson & Johnson. The drug is administered 1 time in 28-30 days. There is a program "Point of sobriety" for patients on therapy with Vivitrol.

Sinclair Method

Cassie Jewell, a professional alcohol and addiction counselor, writes about the Sinclair Method (TSM): "I didn't know about the Sinclair Method, but I did know about the use of naltrexone to treat psychiatric disorders. with alcohol Some studies have shown a reduction in alcohol cravings, but the effect is modest and not seen in all patients Naltrexone is more effective in women and also in men with a certain genotype A person with an alcohol dependence can take naltrexone without the Sinclair method - the proposed method of taking the medicine does not increase the effectiveness of the drug.

Unfortunately, a magic pill has not yet been found that can overcome alcohol addiction. Acamprosate, nalmefene, naltrexone, baclofen, topiramate - none of these drugs can provide reliable control of alcohol consumption. Alcohol use disorder is like diabetes: there is no cure, but it can be controlled. Evaluating the effectiveness of his method, Sinclair refers to a large number of laboratory tests and clinical studies. The "big number" includes 8 studies, of which all 8 were conducted by... Sinclair!

The rather aggressive promotion of the Sinclair method as a means of combating alcoholism, on closer examination, does not stand up to criticism. There is no reliable evidence that “extinction” allows you to cope with a pathological craving for alcohol.”

The postulate of the Sinclair method “Drink to stop drinking” (by the way, this is the name of the book by Roy Escapa on the method)” is very controversial from the point of view of scientists and narcologists. And here's why: most clinical studies show that if an alcoholic continues to drink, by doing so, he will sabotage all attempts to get rid of alcoholism. Sooner or later, a person will break into a relapse. Yes, and the constant use of opioid receptor antagonists is dangerous in itself - the blockade of these receptors from natural endorphins is fraught with a decrease in emotionality.

Nalmefene

Nalmefene is one of the representatives of opioid receptor antagonists. This drug in the form of injections began to be used in the United States in 1995 with the permission of the FDA. In Russia, the drug has been available since 2015 in the form of tablets under the trade name Selincro.

Numerous studies have been conducted (here is one of the most recent), proving that nalmefene significantly reduces the amount of alcohol consumed - but, unfortunately, does not guarantee a complete rejection of it. However, even a dose reduction has a positive effect on the state of the body of the drinking person: those taking nalmefene have a decrease in the levels of aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyltransferase. Elevated levels of these enzymes are indicative of liver damage from alcohol and its breakdown products.

The drug is taken before drinking - and the person ceases to get strong pleasure from alcohol. In such conditions it is easier to stop, there is no desire to "catch up". It is desirable to take Selincro for the treatment of alcoholism in combination with adequate psychosocial support: the effectiveness of the drug in this case is significantly increased.

Acamprosate (Acetylhomotaurine, Campral)

Abroad (in Europe and the USA), the drug acamprosate (trade name "Campral", international non-proprietary name - calcium acetyl homotaurinate) is being promoted as an effective remedy for alcoholism. However, you should not consider this remedy as a panacea for alcohol addiction and strive to order it by hook or by crook from abroad. (In Russia, it is not available due to the lack of a license.)

The mechanism of action of acamprosate is not fully understood, although it has been found that the effect of this drug for alcoholism on the central nervous system is similar to the effect of alcohol. Kampral does not cause disgust and reactions similar to the effect of disulfiram when drinking alcohol.

The chemical structure is similar to gamma-aminobutyric acid. This drug for alcoholism is used for substitution therapy: that is, when the patient needs to smooth out the pain of alcohol withdrawal, reduce alcohol cravings and support his participation in normal life.

In a recent meta-analysis of studies on acamprosate, the researchers note that "the use of acamprosate in patients with alcohol dependence as an adjunct to psychosocial intervention provides a modest but potentially valuable reduction in alcohol consumption." The advantage of this remedy is its good tolerance by the patient and the almost complete absence of drug interactions. The disadvantage of this remedy is the need for long-term use: the recommended course of treatment is 12 months.

Topiramate not only treats epilepsy, but also alcohol addiction

In the process of drug development, it sometimes happens that an effect is found in the drug being developed, which is then used as the main one. This happened with topiramate, which was originally developed as a hypoglycemic (diabetes-lowering) agent for the treatment of diabetes mellitus, and began to be used as an antiepileptic. But in addition to this, topiramate also showed another remarkable effect: it significantly reduces cravings for alcohol, which is confirmed by relevant clinical studies.

An interesting fact is that topiramate is more effective in people with a certain variant of the GRIK1 gene, which is responsible for the synthesis of one of the parts of the ionotropic glutamate receptor (receptors are molecules on the surface of nerve cells that receive signals from other cells). These receptors are responsible for the effects of intoxication because they are responsible for the transmission of excitatory impulses in the nervous system. As scientists have found out, the effect of topiramate is especially pronounced in people who have two identical alleles (copies) of the rs2832407 gene. The number of people with this genotype is very large among the Caucasian race.

Baclofen is a new, unusual drug for alcoholism

The drug baclofen is designed to help with muscle spasms. However, not so long ago, doctors noticed that baclofen not only relaxes muscles, but also reduces cravings for alcohol. French doctors became interested in this side effect of the drug and conducted an experiment in which 320 people aged 18 to 65 took part. All of them took baclofen for a whole year, and as a result, 57% of the participants in the experiment began to drink less alcohol during this time, or even became teetotalers. In the control group of people who took a placebo, those were only 37%.

Now in France, baclofen is sometimes prescribed for the treatment of alcoholism, and a group of doctors has already developed a recommended treatment regimen. Practice has shown that baclofen is effective even if you start taking it while on a binge. However, there is still insufficient data and research to formally and universally authorize the use of baclofen in alcoholism.

Varenicline "Champix", a remedy for nicotine addiction

Several studies have noted that varenicline, better known as Champix and used as a smoking cessation aid, can reduce alcohol consumption. Scientists note that varenicline can be used in patients with comorbid nicotine dependence. Varenicline is a partial agonist of nicotinic receptors in the brain, its effect on the receptors can reduce the craving for smoking and reduce the severity of the withdrawal syndrome.

The mechanism of action of varenicline in reducing alcohol consumption is not yet understood by scientists. Therefore, this drug is not currently considered as a treatment for alcohol dependence alone. However, in heavy alcohol smokers, this side effect of reduced cravings for alcohol should be considered positively.

Memantine - a drug for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

In the past few years, scientists have been actively studying the possibility of using memantine for the treatment of alcohol dependence. Memantine is a drug for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, the drug affects the transmission of impulses between brain cells and improves cognitive (mental) functions. There is evidence of the effectiveness of memantine for the treatment of alcoholic dementia. However, the possibility of treatment with its help and directly alcohol dependence is also being considered.

Unfortunately, there is still no reliable evidence that memantine is able to effectively deal with alcohol abuse, but a number of studies have noted that memantine is effective as an adjuvant in patients with severe depression and alcohol dependence. Further research is needed to help understand whether memantine is really worth using to combat alcoholism.

Lyrica and other pregabalin preparations

A promising drug for the treatment of alcohol dependence and the fight against alcohol withdrawal syndrome is pregabalin, commonly known under the trade name Lyrica. The main effect of this drug is antiepileptic, but one of the side effects is its ability to reduce the excitatory effects of alcohol.

Studies of the anti-alcohol effects of pregabalin have been conducted in both animals (rats) and humans as well. One study noted that pregabalin was comparable in efficacy to naltrexone (about naltrexone).

In recent years, a large number of such studies have been carried out. And in 2015, a comprehensive review was published in which it was noted that pregabalin has a certain positive effect in the treatment of many types of physical dependence, including alcohol. However, scientists note that the possibility of using pregabalin to combat alcoholism and its consequences should be more carefully studied.

Ondansetron - anti-nausea drug for chemotherapy

The antiemetic ondansetron, used to prevent nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy, is being considered by researchers as a treatment for alcoholism. Back in the 2000s, they were carried out, which showed that ondansetron is able to reduce cravings for alcohol, as well as reduce the severity of depression, anxiety and aggressiveness in people who abuse alcohol.

An interesting fact is that ondansetron is more effective in people with a certain genotype. Of course, it is not possible to examine the genotype of every alcoholic to determine whether ondansetron will work on him. It is also important that ondansetron is more effective in the development of so-called early alcoholism, that is, in adolescents.

Ondansetron is not officially approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence. Further studies are required to determine the optimal dosage and treatment regimen.

Gabapentin - anti-seizure drug

Gabapentin is another drug that is being considered as a potentially effective treatment for alcohol dependence. This substance is a structural analogue of GABA, so gabapentin binds to GABAergic receptors in the brain, blocking them from the effects of alcohol.

The main indication for the use of gabapentin is an anticonvulsant, for the treatment of certain forms of epilepsy. However, one of the side effects of this drug is the ability to cause withdrawal symptoms in people who drink alcohol.

The scientists decided to investigate the effectiveness of gabapentin in the treatment and prevention of alcohol dependence. Several well-designed studies have shown that gabapentin is effective in the treatment of alcohol dependence:

• reduces the frequency of relapses of drunkenness,
• reduces the severity of depression and insomnia in the interrecurrent period
• and reduces cravings for alcohol.

The conducted studies allowed American doctors to include gabapentin in national recommendations for the treatment of alcohol dependence with the status “may be offered as a treatment”, but not recommended (Reus V.I., Fokhtman L.Ya., Bukshtein O. et al. Practical American Psychiatric Association Guidelines for the Pharmacological Treatment of Patients with Alcohol Disorder, I J Psychiatry 2018;175:86-90.). Although the FDA has not yet received official approval.

Aripiprazole is a drug for schizophrenia.

Aripiprazole, an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia since 2002, is being considered by scientists as a potential treatment for alcoholism.

The article was last updated: 03/09/2020

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