Our Resources
Here you can find articles written for educational purposes about what services we offer, drug and alcohol facts and the many different locations we service in Wisconsin. Contact us today with any questions.
Medications such as disulfiram, topiramate, and gabapentin can be effective in treating alcohol use disorder (AUD) by reducing cravings for alcohol and improving overall well-being.
It's essential to seek medical advice before taking any medication to treat AUD, as medications can have side effects and interact with other medications or health conditions.
According to recent statistics, alcohol use disorder (AUD) affects millions of individuals worldwide. This chronic condition can lead to severe health issues such as liver disease, heart disease, and cancer. While numerous treatments are available to help those struggling with AUD, medications can be a powerful tool in aiding recovery.
If you or someone close to you is dealing with AUD, it's natural to wonder about the most effective medications to combat alcohol dependence. In this article, we'll delve into the most commonly used medications for treating AUD, examine their mechanisms of action, and highlight their potential side effects.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a multifaceted medical condition that causes individuals to struggle with controlling their alcohol consumption. Successfully treating AUD frequently involves a combination of therapies, support groups, and medications.
Here we have five of the most commonly used and effective medications for those seeking to overcome AUD and stop drinking.
Naltrexone is a medication that works by blocking the effects of alcohol on the brain. It reduces the cravings for alcohol and can make drinking less enjoyable. Naltrexone is available in pill form or as a monthly injection. It is an effective treatment for people who have already quit drinking or who are in the process of quitting.
Studies have shown that naltrexone can be effective in reducing alcohol cravings and promoting abstinence.
The most common side effect of naltrexone is nausea, but this usually goes away after a few days.
Some people may also experience:
More serious side effects are:
Naltrexone comes in two forms: a pill you take once a day and an injection called Vivitrol that you get once a month. The pill usually starts at 50 mg, while the injection is 380 mg given by a healthcare provider in the buttock muscle.
It's not clear how long people should take naltrexone, but some research suggests that stopping it could mean losing any benefits gained while taking it. Some sources recommend staying on naltrexone for at least one year if it's working well. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider to figure out the right treatment for you.
Acamprosate is a medication that helps reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms and cravings for alcohol. It works by restoring the balance of chemicals in the brain that are disrupted by long-term alcohol use. Acamprosate is taken orally, usually three times a day.
Acamprosate works by regulating the levels of glutamate in the brain. Glutamate is a neurotransmitter that is involved in learning and memory. Long-term alcohol use can disrupt the balance of glutamate in the brain, leading to withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Acamprosate helps restore this balance, reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms and making it easier to quit drinking.
Acamprosate has been shown to be effective in reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms and cravings for alcohol.
In clinical trials, acamprosate has been shown to:
One study found that individuals taking acamprosate were more than twice as likely to remain abstinent from alcohol than those taking a placebo.
However, acamprosate is not effective for everyone and may not work for those with severe liver disease or other medical conditions. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider to figure out the right treatment for you.
The most reported side effects of acamprosate include gastrointestinal issues such as:
Fortunately, these symptoms usually subside on their own after a few days. Other possible side effects may include:
While taking acamprosate, some individuals may experience more serious side effects, including:
Acamprosate is a pill for treating alcohol addiction. You take two pills three times a day, after you stop drinking. If you have kidney problems, you may need to take less. But if your kidneys are really bad, you can't take it. Take it as your doctor tells you and watch out for side effects.
Disulfiram is a medication that works by making you sick if you drink alcohol. It is taken orally, usually once a day. Disulfiram is an effective treatment for people who are highly motivated to quit drinking, as the side effects can be severe.
Disulfiram works by blocking the enzyme that breaks down alcohol in the body. This causes a buildup of acetaldehyde, a toxic substance that can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and headache. These side effects usually occur within 10-30 minutes of drinking alcohol and can last for several hours. Over time, the unpleasant effects of disulfiram can help reduce the desire to drink.
Disulfiram has been shown to be effective in reducing the desire to drink, but it is not as commonly used as naltrexone and acamprosate.
This is because disulfiram can have severe side effects if alcohol is consumed while taking it. The most common side effects of disulfiram are nausea, headache, and fatigue. However, the most significant side effect is the severe reaction that occurs if you drink alcohol while taking disulfiram.
This can include difficulty breathing, chest pain, and even death. As a result, disulfiram is typically only prescribed to individuals who are highly motivated to quit drinking and who are willing to accept the risks associated with this medication.
Read about: Combining Alcohol and Over-the-Counter Drugs
Common side effects of disulfiram may include:
However, the most significant side effect of disulfiram is the severe reaction that occurs if an individual drinks alcohol while taking the medication. Symptoms of this reaction can include difficulty breathing, chest pain, and even death. For this reason, disulfiram is typically only prescribed to individuals who are highly motivated to quit drinking and who are willing to accept the risks associated with this medication.
Other serious side effects that can occur while taking disulfiram include:
It's important to work closely with a healthcare provider while taking disulfiram to monitor for any concerning symptoms or complications. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication to minimize adverse effects. Overall, however, disulfiram can be a safe and effective option for individuals seeking treatment for AUD.
Disulfiram is a tablet medication used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD). The typical recommended dose is once daily, usually taken in the morning as indicated by the FDA. The starting dose is typically 500 mg per day, which may be decreased to 250 mg per day after one to two weeks if necessary. If disulfiram causes drowsiness, it can be taken in the evening instead.
It's important to note that disulfiram begins working within a few hours, so it's recommended to be alcohol-free for at least 12 hours before taking the medication. This includes avoiding any products that contain alcohol, such as certain over-the-counter cough syrups or mouthwashes.
As with any medication, it's essential to follow the recommended dosage instructions and work closely with a healthcare provider to monitor for potential side effects or complications.
Topiramate is another medication that can be used to treat alcohol use disorder. It is an anticonvulsant medication that can help reduce cravings for alcohol and improve overall well-being.
Topiramate works by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It can also help to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms and make it easier to quit drinking.
Topiramate is a medicine that can help with alcohol use disorder (AUD). It can make people drink less often and stay sober more days. However, it doesn't seem to help with the urge to drink.
Most studies gave topiramate for three months, with a dose of 300 mg per day. One study with more than 350 people found that topiramate helps more than a fake pill.
Topiramate works about as well as another medicine called naltrexone. But naltrexone didn't work better than a fake pill, while topiramate did. Topiramate is not as good as another medicine called disulfiram at keeping people from drinking. But topiramate is better at reducing the urge to drink.
It's important to talk with a healthcare provider to choose the best treatment for each person's needs.
Topiramate can cause both common and serious side effects. Common side effects may include:
Serious side effects that can occur while taking topiramate include:
It's important to work closely with a healthcare provider while taking topiramate to monitor for any concerning symptoms or complications. Overall, topiramate can be a safe and effective option for individuals seeking treatment for AUD, but it's crucial to weigh the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before starting this medication.
Topiramate comes in tablets and sprinkle capsules. Your healthcare provider might start you on a lower dose and then increase it over time. The highest dose you might take is 150 mg twice a day, but that could cause side effects.
It's best not to drink alcohol while taking topiramate, but it can help reduce alcohol use in people who are still drinking.
Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about topiramate and whether it's a good choice for you.
Gabapentin is another medication that can be used to treat alcohol use disorder. It is an anticonvulsant medication that can help reduce cravings for alcohol and improve overall well-being.
Gabapentin can help treat AUD by improving symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and preventing relapse. It's similar to a chemical in the brain called GABA and helps to lower nerve activity in the brain. During alcohol withdrawal, the brain has less GABA, which can cause cravings, mood changes, and trouble sleeping.
Gabapentin increases GABA levels, which can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, easing these symptoms. It can also help normalize brain function, lowering the risk of relapse. Work with a healthcare provider to find the best treatment options for AUD based on your needs and medical history.
Research indicates that gabapentin may be an effective treatment option for AUD, as it has been shown to improve withdrawal symptoms and promote abstinence when compared to a placebo. In fact, higher doses of gabapentin (up to 1800 mg per day) may be more beneficial in treating AUD.
Combining gabapentin with naltrexone may also be more effective at preventing heavy drinking compared to naltrexone alone. However, it's worth noting that the effect of gabapentin on preventing heavy drinking may not continue once the medication is stopped.
Some studies suggest that gabapentin may be most effective in individuals who experience a lot of alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It's important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment options based on individual needs and medical history.
Here are some common and serious side effects of gabapentin:
These side effects may improve once your body adjusts to the medication.
Serious side effects
If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately:
It's crucial to discuss any concerns or questions about potential side effects with a healthcare provider before starting gabapentin treatment.
Gabapentin is a medication that is typically taken three times a day, and the appropriate dosage can vary based on individual needs. Studies have shown that doses between 900 mg to 1800 mg per day may be effective in treating AUD.
However, dosage recommendations should be determined by a healthcare provider based on an individual's medical history and needs. It's important to follow a healthcare provider's instructions carefully and not to adjust the dosage without consulting them first.
It's essential to seek medical advice before taking any medication to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD). This is because medications can have side effects and interact with other medications or health conditions.
A healthcare provider can help determine which medication is best suited for an individual's needs based on their medical history and symptoms. They can also monitor for any potential side effects or complications that may arise while taking the medication.
It's important to be honest with a healthcare provider about any other medications being taken, including over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbal remedies. Some medications may interact with each other, leading to potentially dangerous complications.
Individuals with certain health conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, may not be able to take certain medications used to treat AUD. A healthcare provider can help determine which treatment options are safe and effective based on an individual's specific circumstances.
Overall, seeking medical advice before taking any medication for AUD is crucial in ensuring safe and effective treatment. It can also help prevent potentially harmful interactions or complications that may arise from self-medicating.
In conclusion, there are several medications available that can be effective in treating alcohol use disorder. Disulfiram, topiramate, and gabapentin are all anticonvulsant medications that can help reduce cravings for alcohol and improve overall well-being. While each medication has its own unique benefits and potential side effects, it's important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment options based on individual needs and medical history.
It's worth noting that medication alone may not be enough to treat AUD fully. Many individuals benefit from combining medication with therapy or support groups to address underlying issues related to their drinking behavior. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as exercise and stress management techniques can also play an essential role in recovery.
Here you can find articles written for educational purposes about what services we offer, drug and alcohol facts and the many different locations we service in Wisconsin. Contact us today with any questions.
June 20, 2024
Uncover the alarming teenage substance abuse statistics and the factors contributing to this hidden epidemic.
June 20, 2024
Explore groundbreaking fentanyl vaccine research offering new hope in addiction treatment.
June 20, 2024
Understand pain medication overdose symptoms and actions to take. Knowledge can save lives.
June 25, 2024
Explore how work-related stress can lead to substance abuse and its impact on productivity and health.
June 20, 2024
Unmasking the truth about fentanyl awareness campaigns. Explore the impact, criticisms, and the path forward. #FentanylAwareness
June 20, 2024
Explore fentanyl addiction treatment in Wisconsin - from recognizing symptoms to recovery options.
June 20, 2024
Unveiling addictive personality traits: Impulsivity, sensation seeking, and more. Discover the roots and find support.
June 20, 2024
Overcoming addiction and embracing a new beginning: Inspiring stories, support systems, and the path to freedom.
June 20, 2024
Navigate the stages of addiction and learn effective strategies for overcoming this challenging journey.
June 20, 2024
Decode 'dependency vs. addiction': understand the differences, consequences, and treatment approaches.
June 20, 2024
Hitting rock bottom before seeking alcohol treatment: Find hope, healing, and a new beginning. Don't face it alone.
June 20, 2024
Master how to avoid alcohol and gambling triggers, defend your recovery, and outsmart addiction today.
June 20, 2024
Unravel the truth about alcoholic parents. Discover signs, impacts, and resources to navigate your situation.
June 20, 2024
Discover if drinking alcohol can trigger heart palpitations and what current research reveals.
June 20, 2024
Alcohol-induced rashes can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. While the exact cause is not fully understood, factors such as dehydration, flushing, and allergic reactions may all play a role.
June 20, 2024
Uncover why mixing prescription drugs with alcohol is dangerous, from health risks to legal consequences.
June 20, 2024
Unmasking five codeine side effects, from common symptoms to long-term risks for your health.
June 20, 2024
Discover the safety of vaping marijuana: risks, dangers, and informed decision-making for those seeking answers. Is vaping marijuana safe?
June 20, 2024
Detect child vaping through physical symptoms, behavioral changes, and signs in appearance. Stay informed and protect your loved ones.
June 20, 2024
Discover the causes of prescription opioid abuse, its impact on health and society, and recovery options.
June 20, 2024
Unravel the complex relationship between opioids and the nervous system, understand risks and safe practices.
June 20, 2024
Explore the hidden perils of driving under the influence of prescription drugs and ways to prevent it.
June 20, 2024
Discover powerful movies about recovery from addiction that inspire, transform, and spark conversation. Triumph over addiction on the big screen!
June 20, 2024
Explore realistic films about addiction that shape perceptions and bare the stark reality.
June 20, 2024
Unveiling celebrity overdose deaths: a heartbreaking exploration of addiction and mental health in the spotlight. Seek awareness and support.
June 20, 2024
Unmask the fentanyl crisis in New Orleans. Understand its heart-wrenching impact and the fight against it.
June 20, 2024
Exposure to mold can lead to a range of physical and mental health issues, including chronic illnesses and exacerbation of pre-existing conditions like addiction.
June 20, 2024
Mixing pain killers and alcohol? Learn the risks, effects on the body, and how to seek help. Stay safe and informed!
June 20, 2024
Unveil how you can become accidentally addicted to pain pills and the steps towards prevention and recovery.
June 20, 2024
Track your sober days with a powerful sober counter. Stay motivated, accountable, and celebrate milestones on your journey.
June 20, 2024
Discover the best sober vacation destinations for relaxation and recovery. Tranquility awaits you!
June 20, 2024
Master the art of staying sober on Thanksgiving with practical strategies and non-alcoholic alternatives.
June 20, 2024
Navigate sober holidays with confidence! Discover strategies, support, and sober activities that inspire.
June 20, 2024
Excessive alcohol consumption can cause skin disorders such as rosacea, psoriasis, and premature aging.
June 20, 2024
Explore if drug use could lead to hair loss, understand its impact and discover effective treatments.
June 20, 2024
Spot the signs of self-obsession! Discover the warning signals and seek help for a healthier mindset.
June 20, 2024
Prevent drug use during pregnancy for a healthier future. Learn about risks, prevention, and support systems to ensure a safe journey.
June 20, 2024
Unveiling the risks: Discover the side effects of combining phentermine and alcohol for your wellbeing
June 20, 2024
Unveiling the impact of alcohol-related disorders: from AUD to FASD, explore the consequences and seek treatment options.
June 20, 2024
This article provides insight into how injuries can lead to prescription drug abuse and addiction, particularly with the use of opioids.
June 20, 2024
Breaking barriers: Unveiling the cost of addiction treatment. Discover payment options and overcome financial obstacles on the path to recovery.
June 20, 2024
Detect alcohol poisoning early with these warning signs. Stay informed and take immediate action to save lives.
June 20, 2024
Explore 'what are cognitive disorders?', their causes, treatment options, and breakthrough research insights.
June 20, 2024
Discover the shocking link between smoking and memory loss. Unravel the mysteries, understand the risks, and find hope for a healthier mind.
June 20, 2024
Unraveling OCD: Understand symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options to answer, "Do I have obsessive compulsive disorder?"
June 20, 2024
Discover which drugs make you more aggressive, from stimulants to prescription meds. Be informed, stay safe.
June 20, 2024
Uncover the purpose of Adderall usage and its potential benefits. From ADHD treatment to cognitive enhancement, explore its effects.
June 20, 2024
Unmask the link between Adderall and kidney disease, learn symptoms, risks, and safe usage practices.
June 20, 2024
Unravel the complex question, "Is addiction a choice or a disease?" Explore genetics, environment, and brain impacts.
June 20, 2024
People with substance use disorder often struggle to get the help they need. However, when seeking out professional help for…
June 20, 2024
Drug abuse is a serious issue that can have devastating physical, mental, social, and behavioral effects on individuals.
June 20, 2024
Explore how ACT for mental health fosters emotional resilience and aids anxiety disorders.
June 20, 2024
Explore how 'anger is a d word' impacts addiction and mental health, and ways to manage it for better well-being.
June 20, 2024
Uncover 10 inspiring ways to take care of your mental health, from social bonds to mindful eating.
June 20, 2024
Discover how to help someone with drug addiction. From understanding signs to creating a supportive environment, be their guiding light.
June 20, 2024
Discover the power of vaccinations for recovery, from COVID-19 to preventing disease outbreaks.
June 20, 2024
Recognize signs of drug use in teenagers. Stay vigilant, spot the clues, and help them find the path to recovery.
June 20, 2024
Explore the answer to "does drinking alcohol cause hair loss?" Unveil the effects of alcohol on hair health.
June 20, 2024
Discover the power of swimming in addiction recovery. Dive deep into the physical, mental, and social benefits!
June 20, 2024
Embrace the power of progress in recovery. Learn how to navigate one day at a time for resilience and growth.
June 20, 2024
Discover strategies on staying motivated in recovery, building support systems, setting goals & developing habits.
June 20, 2024
Unlock stress awareness in recovery. Learn mindful strategies to manage stress and prevent relapse.
June 20, 2024
Discover if length of stay impacts recovery in drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Knowledge is power!
June 20, 2024
Unleash the power of recovery with the 4 R's! Remove, repair, restore, and rebuild your way to optimal healing and wellness.
June 20, 2024
Unearth the need for drug addicts recovery, from understanding addiction to exploring comprehensive treatment strategies.
June 20, 2024
Discover common signs of cocaine use - from physical cues to behavioral changes, and its effects on mental health.
June 20, 2024
Unmasking the truth about cocaine: What is this notorious substance hiding? Discover the dangers, effects, and seeking help.
June 20, 2024
Explore the question: "Does crack cocaine cause violence?" Discover the research, health impacts, and social effects.
June 20, 2024
Navigate the path of seeking addiction treatment during pregnancy - protect two lives at once.
June 20, 2024
Explore the silent effects of drug & alcohol use during pregnancy, its risks, and prevention methods.
June 20, 2024
Explore if you can become addicted to your anxiety medication, its signs, and safe alternatives.
June 20, 2024
Drinking 12 beers a day can have severe and lasting impacts on your physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and financial stability.
June 20, 2024
Crack the code on how many beers to get drunk! Explore the factors and variables that determine your magic number.
June 20, 2024
Navigate the timeline for alcohol withdrawal. From early symptoms to coping strategies, discover the path to healing.
June 20, 2024
Alcohol withdrawal can be a dangerous and even life-threatening experience, especially for those who have been drinking heavily for a prolonged period of time.
June 20, 2024
Discover how to solve withdrawal symptoms effectively with medical support and long-term recovery strategies.
June 20, 2024
Discover the three common symptoms of withdrawal and explore paths to successful recovery.
June 20, 2024
Are you aware of the differences between substance use, abuse, and chemical dependency?
June 20, 2024
Demystifying the complex topic of physiological dependence - learn causes, symptoms, and recovery strategies.
June 20, 2024
Uncover how alcoholism develops over time, from early warning signs to long-term health impacts.
June 20, 2024
Unmask early signs of alcoholism in a loved one, understand its effects and learn ways to help.
June 20, 2024
Decoding 'do I have a hangover or alcohol poisoning?' Understand symptoms, risks, and when to seek help.
June 20, 2024
Explore the hidden mental effects of alcohol, from cognitive impairment to sleep disruption.
June 20, 2024
Discover how to help an alcoholic, from understanding their struggles to effective recovery strategies.
June 20, 2024
Explore the types of alcoholics, understand the genetic and environmental influences, and learn about treatments.
June 20, 2024
Explore the importance of support groups in recovery, their benefits, and tips on choosing the right one.
June 20, 2024
Discover surprising alcohol recovery statistics. Uncover the factors that drive success in the battle against addiction.
June 20, 2024
Discover the journey of recovery and thoughts of using, and strategies to build resilience in addiction recovery.
June 20, 2024
Discover 5 tips to support your loved one in recovery, nurturing health, communication, and self-care.
June 20, 2024
Discover how intensive outpatient intensity structure fosters recovery, from treatment plans to gender-specific approaches.
June 20, 2024
Explore how medication-assisted treatment (MAT) adapts to ensure recovery support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
June 20, 2024
Explore the critical substance abuse treatment plan facets, from behavioral interventions to relapse prevention.
June 20, 2024
Empower your mind with Mental Health Awareness Month! Discover the significance and initiatives that promote mental well-being.
June 20, 2024
Unravel the complex link between substance abuse and mental illness, and explore effective treatment options.
June 20, 2024
"Uncover when to see a therapist, break free from struggles and foster growth with early intervention."
June 20, 2024
Unravel 'what is mental illness?' Explore symptoms, treatments, and overcoming stigma. Knowledge is power!
June 20, 2024
Dive into the dangerous opiate abuse side effects, from health risks to brain alterations and recovery.
June 20, 2024
Discover why the risk for substance abuse is higher in military kids and explore effective interventions.
June 20, 2024
Unravel the mystery behind puzzling signs of addiction and learn to cope effectively.
June 20, 2024
Discover 5 ways you may be encouraging your teen's substance use and how to break the cycle effectively.
At Wellbrook Recovery we’re committed to helping you reclaim your life from drug and alcohol addiction with comfort and dignity. We dedicate all of our resources and expertise to help every individual in our care find peace and lasting recovery by providing them a tailored program with all levels of treatment. Our complete care encompasses all aspects of the addiction, rehabilitating their physical, mental, and emotional health.