Alcoholism treatment research: new directions for an old problem

Article Abstract:

The study by Dorus et al concluded that the drug lithium was not effective in the treatment of alcoholism in depressed and non-depressed patients. Although it did not identify a successful therapeutic modality for alcoholic patients, it demonstrates that scientific methods of evaluating treatment can be applied to alcoholism. Dorus et al avoided the weaknesses of previous research in the pharmacologic treatment of alcoholism by using a large number of patients and not relying on self-reported drinking behavior. However, their conclusion that such research might be too difficult to pursue due to poor patient compliance in taking medication, does not consider that compliance depends in part on a patient's perception of treatment benefits. Lithium does not relieve the craving for alcohol and perhaps future pharmacologic research should address whether or not compliance increases with a decrease in craving. Research on alcoholism can be done well and will lead to improved therapies for one of our nation's major public health problems.

Care and treatment, Research, Alcoholism treatment, Psychopharmacology, editorial

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Naltrexone treatment for alcohol dependence

Article Abstract:

The drug naltrexone may not be effective in reducing alcohol dependence in some people. People most likely to benefit include those who have been drinking for fewer than 20 years, are employed, and have a spouse or a similar social support system.

Editorial

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Naltrexone in the treatment of alcohol dependence

Article Abstract:

The drug naltrexone does not appear to be effective in treating alcoholism, according to a study of 627 patients. Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain, which are part of the brain's reward system.

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