Here are the basics about each of the medicines below. Only common problems with them are listed.
One or more medicines may be given to:
Common names are:
Naltrexone blocks the high that makes a person crave alcohol. It will not prevent a person from the effects of alcohol. It is available as a pill and an injection in a muscle.
Some problems may be:
Acamprosate reduces the craving for alcohol by stabilizing the chemical balance in the brain.
Problems may be:
Common names are:
Disulfiram makes a person sick when they drink alcohol. Alcoholic drinks, foods, products, and medicines may not be taken. If alcohol is used, it will cause symptoms that may last several hours, such as:
Topiramate reduces the craving for alcohol by stabilizing the chemical balance in the brain.
Some problems may be:
Gabapentin can reduce alcohol use, but it is possible that using it can lead to dependence.
High doses may cause problems, such as:
Ondansetron is a serotonin receptor blocker that can lower alcohol use in a person who started drinking at an early age.
Some problems may be:
Common names are:
Benzodiazepines are anti-anxiety medicines. They are used to ease withdrawal symptoms lower the risk of seizures. They have a sedative effect. Benzodiazepines are usually not used for long periods of time because they can lead to dependence. They may also cause withdrawal symptoms when stopped.
Some problems may be:
Alcohol use disorder. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/alcohol-use-disorder. Accessed September 3, 2020.
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/alcohol-withdrawal-syndrome. Accessed September 3, 2020.
Day E, Copello A, Hull M. Assessment and management of alcohol use disorders. BMJ. 2015 Feb 19;350:h715.
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). American Psychiatric Association; 2013.
Last reviewed March 2020 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Adrian Preda, MD
Last Updated: 2/19/2021