[The efficacy and mechanisms of action of lerivon in alcoholism]

Clinico-biological examination of 50 alcoholic patients was carried out. 30 patients were treated with lerivon (L) during 1 month. 15 control patients received amitriptylin for 1 month and 15 patients received relanium for 7 days. It was determined that L was quite effective in treatment of depression in alcoholic patients. The main L effects were anxiolytic, antidepressive and hypnotic. The drug also decreased alcohol addiction, had vegetostabilising and sedative effects. The conclusion was made on pathogenetic action of L in alcoholism: It influences upon dopaminergic mediation in catecholamine system. Administration of L permitted to normalize neurochemical processes underlying alcohol addiction and depression. L was well tolerated. Side effects complications, drug addiction were not registered.