PSYCH 230 Lecture Notes - Lecture 75: Disulfiram, Naltrexone, Acamprosate
Document Summary
First step of treatment is a period of detoxification: Removal of drug on which client has become dependent. Tapering (gradually reducing dose) is often done to ease transition. May be given medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms. On disulfiram, if client consumes alcohol, they become violently ill. Compliance is poor (clients stop disulfiram quickly) People have to take it before drinking. Reduces the pleasantness, high or buzz of alcohol. Blocks effect of endogenous opioids activated by. Increases activity of gaba in the brain. Leads those with aud to crave alcohol less. Otherwise drop out of use is very high. Self-help group program maintained by alcohol abusers to help others achieve sobriety. Assumes individuals cannot recover on their own. Work through 12 steps to recovery while attending meetings. Daily for the first 90 days of sobriety. Early dropout is high, but sobriety rate is high for those who remain. Alcohol/drug use is viewed as maladaptive coping mechanism.
