Pharmacological Treatment of Alcohol Dependence: A Review of the Evidence

Article Abstract:

Naltrexone, nalmefene or acamprosate are the most effective drug treatment for alcohol dependence. This was the conclusion of researchers who analyzed 52 clinical trials of naltrexone and nalmefene, acamprosate, various drugs that affect serotonin levels in the brain, including a group of antidepressants called selective serotonergic reuptake inhibitors, disulfiram and lithium. Only naltrexone, nalmefene and acamprosate were considerably more effective than a placebo in reducing the frequency of drinking.

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Ondansetron for Reduction of Drinking Among Biologically Predisposed Alcoholic Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Article Abstract:

The drug ondansetron appears to be effective in reducing alcohol use by alcoholics. Alcoholism at an early age may be caused by abnormalities in serotonin metabolism, and this drug blocks serotonin activity.

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Medications for Alcohol Dependence--New Vistas

Article Abstract:

Research on the biological basis of alcoholism may lead to more effective treatments. In addition to Antabuse, other effective treatments include naltrexone, acamprosate, and ondansetron.

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