Advances in development of medications for alcoholism treatment

Over the past decade, research on medications to treat alcohol problem has flourished. Naltrexone and acamprosate are tangible fruits of such endeavors and each has now earned approval in a large number of countries. Recent studies on naltrexone indicate that patient compliance is important if full benefits are to be achieved. Several laboratory studies with human subjects are beginning to elucidate the mechanisms underlying efficacy of naltrexone, as well as explaining variability of response among subpopulations of drinkers. In addition to these two agents, recent investigations have also demonstrated that the antidepressants desipramine, imipramine, and fluoxetine reduce mood-related symptoms and, to some extent, drinking itself in alcoholics who are depressed. Research to date suggests that opioid antagonists and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are more effective in reducing alcohol intake when used in combination. Clinical issues, methodology, and directions for future research are also reviewed in this article. In particular, issues addressed include alternative dosage regimens, necessary duration of treatment, employment of medications in combination, integration of pharmacologic agents with behavioral interventions, enhancement of patient compliance, and concurrent treatment of psychiatric comorbidity.