There are three drugs approved to treat alcoholism. All are meant to work only after the patient has become alcohol-free.

-- Antabuse, approved in 1948, works by causing nausea and other unpleasant symptoms when the patient consumes alcohol. However, those who want to drink simply stop taking the drug or choose to ignore the symptoms, limiting its effectiveness.

-- Naltrexone (ReVia) is meant to help patients in recovery stay away from alcohol by blocking the "high" from alcohol consumption. Its effects are limited and it is only approved for use in conjunction with supportive therapy.

-- Campral, approved in 2004, may help reduce cravings.

Alcohol depresses the central nervous system. Depression and anxiety are related emotional conditions that are very common among alcoholics. Antidepressant and antianxiety drugs may help reduce these disorders, which can contribute to cravings.

About LifeTips

Now one of the top on-line publishers in the world, LifeTips offers tips to millions of monthly visitors. Our mission mission is to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Expert writers earn dough for what they know. And exclusive sponsors in each niche topic help us make-it-all happen.

Ask a Question

Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Substance Abuse Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!

Guru Spotlight

George Sayour

Buy My Book

Ever wonder how you could make your life better and more fun? So have tens of millions of fans who have turned to LifeTips for answers over the past decade. We keep the tips, advice, books, podcasts and writing services flowing, so you can keep your life and business growing in the right direction. Upward!