How effective is baclofen in treating craving/alcoholism?

  • Thread starter fluidistic
  • Start date
In summary, there have been studies on the use of baclofen for treating alcoholism, with approximately half of patients showing improvement after 3 to 24 months. However, it is not necessarily a cure and should only be taken under medical supervision. Ongoing studies are being conducted and there have been cautionary stories about self-medication with baclofen.
  • #1
fluidistic
Gold Member
3,923
260
I've read a bit about baclofen and how a doctor (who died of heart attack 1 or 2 days ago) cured himself of craving and alcoholism thanks to baclofen.
I also know there have been a few studies on it but I don't really know how well it can cure alcoholism. Does it work for most alcoholics for example? How many percents, approximately?
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
Perhaps this is what you are looking for.

Results: While all patients were rated “at high risk” at baseline, approximately half of them were rated “at low risk” at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. The sum of patients who were at “low risk” and at “moderate risk” (improved patients) was 84% at 3 months, 70% at 6 months, 63% at 1 year, and 62% at 2 years. The constancy of improvement over the 2-years was remarkable.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3540966/

I don't know that it cures alcoholism, but apparently it helps as long as the person is on the medication.
 
  • #4
here's a cautionary story from yesterday's london evening standard about someone who self-medicated with internet baclofen, and committed suicide while trying to withdraw from it :redface:
 
  • #5

I cannot provide a definitive answer on the effectiveness of baclofen in treating craving and alcoholism as individual responses to medication can vary greatly. However, I can provide some information on the current research and findings on baclofen's role in treating alcoholism.

Baclofen is a medication primarily used to treat muscle spasticity, but it has also been studied for its potential in treating alcohol use disorder (AUD). Some studies have shown that baclofen can reduce alcohol cravings and consumption, and may also help with reducing withdrawal symptoms.

One study published in the journal Alcohol and Alcoholism found that baclofen was effective in reducing alcohol cravings and consumption in individuals with AUD. However, this study was conducted with a small sample size and may not be representative of all individuals with AUD.

Another study published in the journal Addictive Behaviors found that baclofen was effective in reducing alcohol cravings and consumption in individuals with AUD, but only when used in combination with counseling. This suggests that baclofen may be more effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

It is important to note that baclofen is not a cure for alcoholism, but rather a tool that can help individuals manage their cravings and reduce their alcohol consumption. It may work for some individuals, but not for others. The effectiveness of baclofen may also depend on factors such as the severity of the alcoholism, the individual's overall health, and their motivation to stop drinking.

In terms of percentages, it is difficult to estimate the overall effectiveness of baclofen in treating alcoholism as it may vary from person to person. Some studies have reported success rates of around 50%, while others have reported lower success rates. It is also important to consider that success rates may be influenced by factors such as study design and criteria for defining success.

In conclusion, while there is some evidence to suggest that baclofen may be effective in treating alcoholism, more research is needed to fully understand its potential and limitations. It is important for individuals struggling with alcoholism to work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for their individual needs.
 

1. How does baclofen work in treating craving and alcoholism?

Baclofen is a medication that works by binding to specific receptors in the brain that are involved in the reward system. This can help reduce the pleasurable effects of alcohol, which may decrease cravings and help with alcoholism treatment.

2. What is the success rate of baclofen in treating alcoholism?

The success rate of baclofen in treating alcoholism varies depending on the individual and their level of alcohol dependence. Studies have shown that baclofen can be effective in reducing cravings and promoting abstinence in some individuals, but it is not a guaranteed treatment for everyone.

3. Are there any side effects of using baclofen for alcoholism treatment?

Like any medication, there can be potential side effects when using baclofen for alcoholism treatment. Some common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. It is important to discuss any potential side effects with a doctor before starting treatment.

4. How long does it take for baclofen to start working for alcoholism treatment?

The timeline for baclofen to start working for alcoholism treatment can vary. Some individuals may experience a reduction in cravings and alcohol use within a few weeks, while others may take longer to see results. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

5. Is baclofen a standalone treatment for alcoholism or should it be used in combination with other therapies?

Baclofen is not typically used as a standalone treatment for alcoholism. It is often combined with other therapies, such as counseling and support groups, to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment. It is important to address the underlying causes and triggers of alcoholism in addition to using medication for the best chance of success in recovery.

Similar threads

Replies
18
Views
2K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
13
Views
806
Replies
2
Views
881
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
7
Views
906
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
2
Views
823
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
738
Replies
56
Views
5K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
2K
Back
Top