The FDA has approved Vivitrol (naltrexone) as a one time-a-month injectable medication for the treatment of alcoholism. Naltrexone has been used as a tablet, which is taken everyday.
The drug suppresses alcohol cravings by blocking neurotransmitters which stimulate alcohol reliance. In addition, although the drug is typically well tolerable, liver impairment is one of the conceivable side-effects for patients on high doses. It is not indicated for patients with acute hepatitis or liver failure caused by alcoholism. Patients treated with injectable Vivitrol will also be given addiction counseling and support, say the makers. The new product will be accessible in the USA in June, say the makers.
A stage III trial run showed patients taking 380 mg of Vivitrol and receiving psychosocial support experienced considerably fewer incidences of massive drinking bouts compared to patients given a placebo and psychosocial support.
Written by: Christian NordqvistEditor: Medical News Today
That concludes this special report.
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3 comments:
Hey P. Bench nice post! I know some alcohol rehabilitation programs do include treatments using drugs with possible serious side effects but I hope they find a better and safer treatment method. My friend is now undergoing an alcohol rehabilitation program and I think he has been administered with a similar treatment method. I just hope it all goes well. -Lena
Can there be other alcoholism treatment aside from the injectable naltrexone? I have this cousin who is very eager to get cleaned but he just can't stand taking medication in a regular basis. Now, we are searching for the best alcoholism treatment that will meet his preferences.
--maricel
Can there be other alcoholism treatment aside from the injectable naltrexone? I have this cousin who is very eager to get cleaned but he just can't stand taking medication in a regular basis. Now, we are searching for the best alcoholism treatment that will meet his preferences.
--maricel
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