There are a variety of methods for treatment for alcohol dependence. Some of these methods include education and support to stop drinking, medicines to reduce withdrawal symptoms and stop alcohol cravings, and professional counseling to work through relationship issues.

However there is a new method on the market, a drug with the brand name chemical ReVia [formerly called Trexan], Vivitrolnaltrexone. This drug is taken as an injection, usually into a muscle once a month. Naltrexone is also available in pill form.

The general purpose of this drug, Naltrexone, is to interfere with the part of the brain which is involved in producing the pleasure sensation you get from drinking alcohol or other drugs.

Basically, Naltrexone is used to reduce the pleasurable effects received from alcohol. This drug can be used alone or it can be combined with other medicines to treat alcohol dependence.

To be most effective in treating alcoholism Naltrexone works in conjunction with counseling.

1 Most studies show that Naltrexone significantly reduces your chance for relapse after you have stopped drinking.

2 It might not be effective in treating men with severe, ongoing alcohol dependence.

3 Some side effects of Naltrexone include nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. It can also cause headaches and make you feel anxious, sleepy, or nervous.

Tags: Alcoholism Articles, Information And Help