What is the story with Alcohol Meds

[jackie]

Hey Everyone,

I have been hearing more and more about medications for alcohol that seem to be helping. Has anyone here tried vivitrol? Did it help?

I have been an alcoholic and can't stay away even with AA. Just looking for help.

Thanks

--Jackie

[TomInKan]

Hey Jackie,

I know that vivitrol can only be prescribed by a physician. It is an injectable form of naltrexone (which has been around for a while). It is given once a month. The length at which you have to keep on it is still somewhat debatable. some are saying 18 months now. The way it works is that it blocks receptors to help reduce the need for drinking. I am not sure if they ahave seen a lot of total abstinence but they have data that shows reduction in drinking days for a lot of people. I think it is worth asking your doc about.

Good luck

[eddieddx]

the four fda approved medications for alcoholism are

Antabuse (disulfiram)
extended-release naltrexone (vivitrol)
naltrexone (revia/depade)
acamprosate (campral)