[Current concepts on therapeutic possibilities in alcohology]

Therapeutic possibilities in the field of alcoholism are certainly more extensive than accepted by most general practitioners and internists whose attitude is, according to an inquiry, rather fatalistic. The actual therapy of alcoholism proves to be effective, the earlier the therapy being started the better are the results. On this account, the necessity of preventive measures and of an early treatment is to be underlined. General practitioners and internists (whose training in this area appears to be still deficient) as well as centers for nutritional hygiene and alcohology (presently about 200 consultation centers in France) may play here a cardinal role. The treatment of alcohol-addicts often justifies hospitalisation, more and more in general hospitals, where a therapeutic program, at the first place a long-term psychotherapy, is set up. The alcoholic should constantly be assisted by his treating physician, by specialised centers and also by fellowships of former alcohol-addicts.