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Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol dependence is one of the names used for alcohol use disorder, a brain disorder in which a person cannot stop or control drinking despite adverse effects on social life, work or health. Someone may keep drinking through problems at work, arguments at home or worsening health. The condition can be mild, moderate or severe.

Medicine used to treat Alcohol Dependence

Naltrexone

Naltrexone

50mg

Naltrexone tablets help support recovery from alcohol dependence and opioid dependence by blocking opioid effects. It comes in one strength and several pack sizes. Each option lists its price per tablet.

FromUS$4.45/ tabletView

Key points

  • Alcohol use disorder is the umbrella term for what people call alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, addiction or alcoholism.
  • Craving can be physical, such as needing a drink on waking.
  • Treatment usually aims at stopping completely, while people not ready to stop are supported to cut down to a safer level.

Signs of dependence

Drinking more than intended, finding it hard to cut down, and needing larger amounts for the same effect are common. Tremor, anxiety and other withdrawal symptoms can follow when drinking stops.

Stopping safely

Coming off alcohol abruptly when dependent can be very dangerous. If withdrawal symptoms appear, get medical help before attempting to stop.

Treatment and medicines

Care usually combines counselling and lifestyle changes with medicine. Naltrexone 50mg tablets reduce the reward that alcohol produces, so drinking feels less pleasurable and cravings ease. The same tablets are used in opioid dependence. Naltrexone is supplied as a generic tablet. Orders are shipped to Malaysia from pharmacy partners in India in discreet packaging.

What the sources say

  • National surveys show that millions of people have alcohol use disorder. (NIAAA)
  • Alcohol withdrawal is potentially life-threatening when someone who has drunk heavily for a long period stops suddenly. (NIAAA)
  • Severe withdrawal symptoms, including visible shaking, confusion, hallucinations or seizures, need immediate emergency care. (NHS)

Further reading

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