MAT for Alcohol 

MAT for Alcohol

With all the innovations in modern treatment, it can be easy to think there is a pill to stop drinking alcohol. Sadly, getting sober from alcohol isn’t as easy as taking medicine. In addition to medication, behavioral therapy is required for long-term sobriety, as well as support from family and community groups like AA. However, there are some medications to help stave off withdrawal symptoms, block cravings, and create a negative response to booze.

It is important to not count on only on medication to arrest your alcoholism. Recovery from alcohol is about creating a new life without drinking. You cannot get this from taking a pill. Instead, a commitment to behavioral therapy, holistic therapy, and 12-step support ongoing are vital to develop a foundation for lasting sobriety.

alcohol

Medication-Assisted Detox

A medically supervised detox is the safest way to detox from alcohol. In fact, it should be the only way someone with a drinking problem begins their recovery. Also, relapse is most common during the first few months of becoming sober and this is due, in part, to the cravings and withdrawal. By controlling these symptoms, people are much more at ease and can focus on behavioral change.

Alcohol Withdrawal Indications (in no specific order)

Anxiety
Delirium tremens
Dizziness
Hallucinations
High blood pressure
Sleeplessness
Cravings
Irritability
Memory problems
Nausea
Seizures
Perspiring

These withdrawal symptoms can fluctuate in strength due to many influencing factors such as age, duration of drinking and quantity.

MAT Medications to Stop Drinking

Disulfiram

Disulfiram is a medication used to treat chronic alcoholism by triggering “sickness” effects when the individual drinks. These effects begin about 10 minutes after alcohol enters the body and last for 1 hour or more. Disulfiram discourages drinking and is typically administered at beginning of treatment and intermittingly after that, as needed. Disulfiram is effective because it provides the alcoholic with an immediate adverse reaction each time they drink.

Naltrexone

Naltrexone is used along with therapy and 12-step support to help people who have stopped drinking alcohol and continue to have cravings. Naltrexone is in a class of drugs called opiate antagonists. It works by decreasing the craving for alcohol and blocking the effects of opiate medications and opioid street drugs.

Acamprosate

Acamprosate is a medicine to help people “stay on the wagon.” Drinking alcohol for protracted periods changes the way the brain functions, and Acamprosate works by helping the mental capability of the individual. Acamprosate does not stop the withdrawal symptoms but has been shown to work in people who have not stopped drinking alcohol or in people who drink large quantities of alcohol.

Simple Path Recovery is a oceanside, boutique addiction treatment center located in Pompano Beach, FL. Recognized as a Top Florida Drug & Alcohol Rehab, Simple Path is committed to individualized care, 12-step integration, and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). Their addiction helpline is available 24/7 at 855-467-3625.


About the Author
Matthew Koenig is the principal of Last Call Marketing, which devotes their efforts to Digital Marketing, Content Marketing, Website Design and SEO, primarily in healthcare and tourism concerns. Mr. Koenig is based out of South Florida. His sober date is June 10, 2013.

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Jack

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