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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Alcoholism Be Treated?

My husband was prescribed wellbutrin. He is an abusive alcoholic who can t cope with life. Everything is about him. If he is mad or upset with his children who are grown with children of their own he gets drunk and screams and curses me. He can become violent and has in the past. Do you think the wellbutrin will help him? How long does it take to notice whether it is helping or not. What are options available?
Thu, 21 Mar 2019
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

The Wellbutrin can help with his irritability and depression, but it sounds like his behavior goes beyond that. He also needs counseling and coping skills to deal with his anger and how to not be abusive. Also, he needs treatment for his alcohol dependence/addiction. It can take a few weeks for the Wellbutrin to start to help, but given the other behaviors, I do not think it will be enough on it's own. Also, I am wondering if the doctor who prescribed it is aware of his alcohol use? Because the combination of alcohol and Wellbutrin can increase the likelihood of seizures.

I recommend that you find a support group such as Alanon, to help support you in dealing with an alcoholic husband. And, that you find safe places for yourself so that you are not in harms way. If he cannot or will not get treatment for his abusive behavior and alcohol abuse, you may need to leave until he does.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, General & Family Physician
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How Can Alcoholism Be Treated?

Hello, The Wellbutrin can help with his irritability and depression, but it sounds like his behavior goes beyond that. He also needs counseling and coping skills to deal with his anger and how to not be abusive. Also, he needs treatment for his alcohol dependence/addiction. It can take a few weeks for the Wellbutrin to start to help, but given the other behaviors, I do not think it will be enough on it s own. Also, I am wondering if the doctor who prescribed it is aware of his alcohol use? Because the combination of alcohol and Wellbutrin can increase the likelihood of seizures. I recommend that you find a support group such as Alanon, to help support you in dealing with an alcoholic husband. And, that you find safe places for yourself so that you are not in harms way. If he cannot or will not get treatment for his abusive behavior and alcohol abuse, you may need to leave until he does. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, General & Family Physician