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Treatment & Prevention of Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a dependency on alcohol and is a serious disease that can affect your work, relationships, health and finances. Treatment for alcoholism includes medications, support groups and counseling. Ongoing therapy may be necessary for a complete recovery.

  1. Medications

    • When withdrawing from alcohol your doctor may prescribe a drug called Antabuse. This drug will not cure you from alcoholism, but will take away the desire to drink. Consuming alcohol while on the drug will cause nausea, vomiting and headaches. The drug Campral helps combat alcohol cravings and will not make you feel as sick as Anatbuse if you consume alcohol while on the drug. Vivitrol is a medication injected into the buttocks once a month and reduces the urge to drink by blocking certain signals in the brain that are associated with alcohol dependence. This drug is only for people who have not had a drink in a week and are receiving counseling. Your doctor may also prescribe benzodiazepines such as Valium and Antivan to help with withdrawal symptoms. Thiamine supplements may also be recommended as alcohol depletes the body of this important vitamin.

    Residential Treatment Programs

    • Treatment in a residential program begins with detoxification over a four to seven day period. Valium or other sedating drugs may be prescribed to help prevent withdrawal seizures. Alcoholism can cause high blood pressure and liver and heart disease so you will be medically accessed while in residency. After detox, therapy will begin with individual and group counseling sessions. Family sessions are encouraged because family support is important towards recovery.

    Support

    • Alcoholics Anonymous is a self-help group for recovering alcoholics. The program is based on 12 steps to help people lead sober lives. People share stories and learn how to cope without the need for alcohol. Al-anon support groups are for families of alcoholics. The program provides support and guidance for those affected by alcoholism in their family. You can find these groups in your local phone book or referred through your doctor.

    Prevention

    • Early intervention when you see a cycle of alcohol abuse is the best way to prevent alcoholism. Signs that a person is abusing alcohol are red eyes, slurred speech, frequent mood changes and irritability. Provide a strong support base along with medical and psychological attention. Let the person know they can come to you for help instead of turning to alcohol.

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