Alcohol Abuse and Dependence

Medicines can be used to help treat alcohol abuse and dependence. Some medicines reduce withdrawal symptoms during detoxification. Other medicines help you stay sober during the long process of recovery.

Medicines for withdrawal

Medicines most often used to treat withdrawal symptoms during Reference detoxification Opens New Window include:

• Reference Antianxiety medicines (benzodiazepines such as diazepam), which treat withdrawal symptoms such as Reference delirium tremens (DTs) Opens New Window.
• Reference Seizure medicines to reduce or stop severe withdrawal symptoms during detoxification.

Medicines for recovery

Medicines used to help you stay sober during Reference recovery Opens New Window include:

• Reference Disulfiram (Antabuse), which makes you sick to your stomach when you drink.
• Naltrexone (ReVia, Vivitrol), which interferes with the pleasure you get from drinking.
• Reference Acamprosate (Campral), which may reduce your craving for alcohol.
• Topiramate (Topamax), which may help treat alcohol problems.

Vitamins and supplements

Alcohol abuse can cause your body to become low in certain vitamins and minerals, especially thiamine (vitamin B1). You might need to take thiamine supplements to improve your nutrition during recovery. Thiamine helps prevent Reference Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome Opens New Window, which causes brain damage.

You also might need supplements to help replace fluids and Reference electrolytes Opens New Window.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.