Study shows naltraxone helps primary care management of alcohol dependance

Interest in naltrexone as a treatment for alcohol misuse seems to be on the rise (see previous post). Drug and Alcohol Findings has published a bulletin highlighting the efficacy of naltrexone in supporting GPs  to manage patients' alcohol dependence. The findings, based on a US study, indicated that naltrexone effective for low-level management of dependant drinkers in primary care.  When also combined with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy type approaches, its efficacy and longevity was increased, even for abstinence based support. Naltrexone is typically believed to have most value in assisting controlled drinking goals amongst clients.

Applying the findings to the use of the drug in the UK, the report states:

"Its suitability for controlled drinking programmes should make it more acceptable in Britain, where major studies have provided greater support for naltrexone than for acamprosate. However, its unlicensed status in Britain has probably limited naltrexone's usage and with it how comfortable doctors feel prescribing the drug."

See here for a wider report on the pharmacotherapy of alcohol dependence.

Comments

[Call CareNet]

Nice Info. It is very important to stay on top of your health and have a check up at least once a year to ensure that you remain healthy. Many health problems are curable but you need to catch them in time. Do not wait to go see a doctor because it may be too late.

[Mrs S Herbert]

Before I reached 50 and all the checkups that go with reaching that age,asking for a health check from my GP only resulted in a blood pressure test and listening to my heart,and a weight check.How can problems be caught early when no one knows what symptoms to look for.

[Study Management]

Thanks for sharing this info and update.