Is Baclofen Effective In Treating Alcoholism In A Person With Mental Disorder?

Posted on Mon, 19 Oct 2015

Question: is baclofen not that effective in alcoholism treatment when there is mental disorder too?

if alcoholism and some mental disorder exist like anxiety,ocd or psychosis, then what drug will be more beneficial for alcoholism treatment ?

Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Topiramate can help in such situation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic

I can understand your concern. Baclofen is a drug that is used by a lot of psychiatrists in treatment of alcoholism to reduce craving. The effects of drug vary between individuals but in a lot of studies it has been found to reduce the risk of relapse. Though psychosis results in increased risk of alcohol intake but actions of Baclofen don't change even if there is psychosis. The risk is independent.

If mental disorders like mood changes are common in alcoholism then in my opioid stabiliser drug as Topiramate would be better choice. The drug help to stabilise mood and also help as anti craving drug. The drug can even be used even if individual is taking Baclofen.

Thanks, Hope this helps you, if you have more doubts you can ask again.

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T