Alcohol Treatment: Real Options for Real People

If you or someone you know is battling alcohol use disorder, the first step is figuring out what actually helps. Forget vague advice – we’ll break down the main treatments that work today and give you simple actions to start right now.

Medication‑Assisted Options You Can Consider

Medications are a big part of modern alcohol treatment. The classic drug Antabuse (disulfiram) makes drinking unpleasant, but it isn’t the only choice. In 2025 there are six newer alternatives that many clinicians recommend:

• Naltrexone – blocks the brain’s reward response to alcohol, reducing cravings.
• Acutex (acamprosate) – helps calm the nervous system after you stop drinking.
• Topiramate – originally an anti‑seizure drug, now shown to cut heavy drinking days.
• Gabapentin – eases withdrawal symptoms and can lower relapse risk.
• Vivitrol (extended‑release naltrexone) – a once‑monthly injection for people who struggle with daily pills.
• Experimental combos – doctors sometimes pair low doses of two meds to target both cravings and anxiety.

All these options need a prescription, so talk to a doctor or an addiction specialist. They’ll check your health history, run basic labs, and pick the right drug for you.

Therapy, Support Groups, and Everyday Hacks

Medication alone isn’t a magic bullet. Combine it with behavioral support for the best chance of staying sober.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps you spot triggers and replace drinking thoughts with healthier actions.
• 12‑step meetings like AA give a community that understands the struggle.
• Online recovery apps let you log cravings, set goals, and get reminders to stay on track.
• Exercise and nutrition – regular walks, protein‑rich meals, and staying hydrated make withdrawal feel less brutal.
• Sleep hygiene – consistent bedtime routines cut anxiety that can lead back to drinking.

Pick one or two things you can start today. For example, download a free craving‑tracker app and schedule a 15‑minute walk after dinner. Small changes add up fast.

Remember, recovery isn’t linear. You might slip, but each attempt teaches you what works better next time. Keep your doctor in the loop, lean on supportive friends, and give yourself credit for every sober hour.