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Can Topamax Help Cure Alcohol Abuse?
Question: Hello... can topamax or any other drug be used to help with alcohol dependence? I am a 60 yr old healthy male who drinks nearly daily...
Brief Answer:
Topamax has found to be effective, but still not approved by FDA
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to HCM
I have gone through your query.
There are many medications that can be used in the treatment of alcohol dependence, but the choice of drug defers from individual to individuals.
Regarding topamax
Several studies have demonstrated topiramate's efficacy in improving drinking behaviour and maintaining abstinence. So it can be tried but only after examination & consulting doctor. But it is still not approved by the FDA.
Other options are
Benzodiazepines are anti-anxiety drugs used to treat withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and poor sleep and to prevent seizures and delirium.
Disulfiram may be used once the detox phase is complete and the person is abstinent. It interferes with alcohol metabolism so that drinking a small amount will cause nausea, vomiting.
Acamprosate and Naltraxone are the medicines that has been shown to reduce alcohol craving.
Hope this helps.
I'll be glad to clarify your further questions.
Take care.
Topamax has found to be effective, but still not approved by FDA
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to HCM
I have gone through your query.
There are many medications that can be used in the treatment of alcohol dependence, but the choice of drug defers from individual to individuals.
Regarding topamax
Several studies have demonstrated topiramate's efficacy in improving drinking behaviour and maintaining abstinence. So it can be tried but only after examination & consulting doctor. But it is still not approved by the FDA.
Other options are
Benzodiazepines are anti-anxiety drugs used to treat withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and poor sleep and to prevent seizures and delirium.
Disulfiram may be used once the detox phase is complete and the person is abstinent. It interferes with alcohol metabolism so that drinking a small amount will cause nausea, vomiting.
Acamprosate and Naltraxone are the medicines that has been shown to reduce alcohol craving.
Hope this helps.
I'll be glad to clarify your further questions.
Take care.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Sonia Raina
Answered by
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