BACLOFEN
Muscle relaxant for alcohol cravings
How it helps
Reduces alcohol cravings and muscle spasms. Helps maintain sobriety.
How to take
Take exactly as prescribed. Usually 3 times daily with food. Don't stop suddenly.
Side effects
Drowsiness, dizziness, weakness. Avoid driving if drowsy.
⚠️ Never stop suddenly - can cause seizures. Don't mix with alcohol.
ACAMPROSATE
Reduces alcohol cravings
How it helps
Balances brain chemicals disrupted by alcohol. Reduces urge to drink.
How to take
Take 2 tablets 3 times daily with meals. Continue even if you relapse.
Side effects
Diarrhea, stomach upset, skin rash. Usually mild and temporary.
⚠️ Safe to take if you drink alcohol, but works best when abstinent.
NALTREXONE
Blocks alcohol pleasure effects
How it helps
Blocks brain opioid receptors that make alcohol feel good. Reduces drinking pleasure.
How to take
One tablet daily, same time each day. Can take with or without food.
Side effects
Nausea, headache, fatigue. Take with food to reduce nausea.
⚠️ Tell all doctors you take this. Blocks pain medications too.
DIAZEPAM
For alcohol withdrawal symptoms
How it helps
Prevents seizures and reduces anxiety during alcohol withdrawal.
How to take
Take exactly as prescribed. Usually for short-term use only.
Side effects
Drowsiness, confusion, memory problems. Avoid driving.
⚠️ Can be habit-forming. Never mix with alcohol. Don't stop suddenly.
DISULFIRAM
Makes you sick if you drink alcohol
How it helps
Creates unpleasant reaction if you drink. Strong deterrent to drinking.
How to take
One tablet daily, morning preferred. Take 12+ hours after last drink.
Side effects
Metallic taste, skin rash, fatigue. Severe reaction with alcohol.
⚠️ Avoid ALL alcohol - even mouthwash, hand sanitizer, cooking wine.
TOPIRAMATE
Reduces alcohol cravings
How it helps
Reduces alcohol cravings and heavy drinking days. Also prevents seizures.
How to take
Start low, increase slowly. Take twice daily. Drink plenty of water.
Side effects
Tingling, memory problems, kidney stones, weight loss.
⚠️ Drink lots of water. Report mood changes. Don't stop suddenly.
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