Pubdate: Mon, 08 Jan 2001
Source: Nation, The (Pakistan)
Copyright: 2001 The Nation Group of Publications Pvt Limited
Contact:  http://www.nation.com.pk
Author: Dr. Andrew Byrne

MESSAGE TO ALL ALCOHOLICS AND HEAVY DRINKERS.

More than ever before, medical treatment can help with alcohol 
problems. There are new drugs for cravings and depression which have 
revolutionised treatment. Success rates have improved for people who 
previously have had a poor response to treatment.

If attempts at abstinence have failed, naltrexone and acamprosate are 
tablets which are very effective in reducing cravings when used 
correctly. Various helpful antidepressants are now also available and 
most of these drugs are on the government prescription drug list. 
They do not make you sick if you drink and it is possible to keep 
drinking. However, most people just do not feel like it when they 
start treatment. In my experience, about a third seem to give up 
completely, a third reduce their intake significantly and another 
third of patients find less effect for some reason. There are few 
serious side effects in most cases but there could be interactions if 
you are taking other medications, even over-the-counter ones. It is 
essential to have a medical examination before taking any of these 
medications.

So if you are having problems with drink, see your doctor and get an 
assessment today.

Written by Dr Andrew Byrne, dependency specialist, Redfern, NSW.
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