Alcohol use disorder might be one of the most severe forms of addiction (as well as the most notorious, at east in social terms). However, due to the perseverance and patience of numerous researchers and scientists, medical professionals can access a wide variety of treatment options for people suffering from alcohol abuse, alcohol dependency, or full-blown alcoholism. As our database of knowledge continues to expand and advance, new and more innovative methods keep creeping around the corner, making us one step closer to providing more efficient relief for these sick people. Some of the most important factors to consider are accessibility, affordability, quality, and cost-effectiveness, particularly for people who cannot afford upper echelon treatment facilities. Still, which programs works the best? Which methods have been guaranteed to work to the full extent? Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
Drug-Accompaniment Therapy
As part of a recent study in 2006, scientists determined that a combination of outpatient intervention (constituting 9 briefings with a counselor) and alcohol-deterrent medications Revia and Vivitrol (accompanied by 20 more sessions of therapy) provided quality treatment for alcohol abuser and alcoholics. Dr. Mark L. Willenbring (director of the division of treatment and recovery research at the National Institute for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism) explains a mixture of drugs and counseling can help alcohol users heal much faster and more efficiently. While medical management might be a bit more rigorous than alternative forms of rehab, it is still a beneficial component of patient care.
COMBINE Behavioral Intervention
After a period of 16 weeks, scientists determined that participants who took place in the COMBINE (Combining Medications and Behavioral Interventions for Alcohol Dependence) study demonstrated effective outcomes:
- Abstinent days increased from 27 to 73%
- Alcohol consumption lowered by 80% (from 66 to 13 drinks)
- Patients receiving Revia or Vivitrol or counseling improved by 80%, in contrast to patients who received similar care and placebo pills (70% success rate)
- Patients receiving Revia or Vivitrol did not crave alcohol as much as they did before.
- Medication-accompaniment therapy and counseling increased the chance of successful recovery by 50%.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Alcohol use disorder is a dangerous mental illness that can wreak havoc on your mind and body. However, with the correct comprehensive care and supervision, you can easily regain your footing and take back control of your life. If you are suffering from a severe form of alcohol use disorder or have a friend or loved one who is coping with alcohol abuse or alcoholism, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the rehabilitation process and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle.
If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your alcohol abuse or addiction troubles today.
