You’ve decided it’s time to finally stop drinking and become serious about overcoming your addiction. As you’ll probably find, there are numerous methods out there to help people conquer and cope throughout the healing process. You may have started to read about different rehab programs and their treatment methods. While it can be an overwhelming process, educating yourself will help you make the right decision in the long run.
When going through addiction rehab, oftentimes medication will be prescribed alongside your treatment program. While there is no magic medicine that will erase alcohol addiction, there are different prescriptions designed for people’s needs during rehab. Let’s take a look at some of the most common medications used to help people overcome alcoholism.
Disulfiram
Disulfiram is a white odorless medication that mimics the effects of a hangover. The way it works is each time you drink alcohol, you’ll feel sick. This can be an effective method for curing addiction because it punishes you for drinking alcohol, helping you stick to your goal.
Unfortunately, causing sick feelings doesn’t help everyone overcome alcohol addiction. That’s why this drug is typically prescribed to those who are dedicated to getting sober and don’t like feeling hungover. Be sure to consult with a medical professional to find out if this method is right for you.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone is a medication that is used to help people dissociate pleasurable feelings with drinking. Naltrexone blocks the “high” you feel after drinking alcohol and reduces cravings, which can help you successfully reduce your drinking over time. Those who are committed to getting sober can take Naltrexone either by pill or monthly injection.
Naltrexone does not stop any of the withdrawal symptoms that come with ending alcohol abuse, which means the drug works best when paired with rehab. Withdrawal is not something to go at alone, and it can be even tougher when you know the medication you’re taking is affecting your craving for the one thing you want the most.
If you’re researching rehabs, remember to ask them about Naltrexone to help you overcome addiction. Being part of an alcohol addiction program while taking Naltrexone can help you stay committed to getting sober.
Campral
Campral is a medication used to treat alcoholism that’s designed to help you through the cravings. It was approved by the FDA in 2004 and is primarily used to help people be less dependent on alcohol. While it does not reduce the withdrawal symptoms, it has been proven to help control the desire to drink.
Similar to Naltrexone, Campral is recommended for people who want to take it alongside a rehab program and achieve long-lasting sobriety. In fact, it can be combined with other medications used to treat alcoholism, such as Disulfiram or Naltrexone, because it does not have the addictive qualities of opiates. It is a great medication for treatment because it can help you cope during your journey.
Heal at Ranch Creek Recovery
Here at Ranch Creek Recovery, we strive to provide the best quality care for our patients. If you or a loved one is struggling through alcohol addiction, we work with you to determine the right medication used during your treatment and provide a holistic approach to help heal your mind, body and soul. When you come to us for treatment, we strive to help you overcome addiction and grow into the healthier version of yourself you were always meant to be.
Learn more about Ranch Creek Recovery, including our what we offer and what we treat.
Have questions? We’re here to help. Contact us today.
Resources:
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/features/fighting-alcoholism-with-medications#1
https://www.rxlist.com/antabuse-drug.htm
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a685041.html
https://www.verywellmind.com/medications-for-alcoholism-67514
https://americanaddictioncenters.org/addiction-medications/campral/
