[Clinical alcohology]

Abstract

Alcohol is the most consumed substance in France. Nine percent of French people are present with alcohol misuse (abuse and dependence). Early screening of alcohol misuse can be identified in clinical, biological or social fields. Minimal guidance is effective even at an early stage of alcohol misuse. Currently, clinical population presenting with alcohol dependence presents most frequently a polyconsumption (association of alcohol-tobacco-cannabis). Psychiatric comorbidities must be screened and systematically distinguished from induced psychiatric disorders. Medically assisted alcohol withdrawal remains consensual and effective. It combines hydration, benzodiazepines and thiamine. Strategies against alcoholism relapse use better evaluated psychotherapies (as behavioral and cognitive therapies) and the development of new pharmacological treatments.