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. 2008 Oct;64(4):320-4.
doi: 10.1016/S0377-1237(08)80009-3. Epub 2011 Jul 21.

Use of Anti-Craving Agents in Soldiers with Alcohol Dependence Syndrome

P L Narayana  1 , A K Gupta  2 , P K Sharma  3
Affiliations

Use of Anti-Craving Agents in Soldiers with Alcohol Dependence Syndrome

P L Narayana et al. Med J Armed Forces India. 2008 Oct.

Abstract

Background: In a search for an effective 'anti-alcohol pill', three modern anti-craving agents have been studied in alcoholics of Army/ DSC, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard.

Methods: 129 patients of alcohol dependence syndrome were randomly assigned to three groups where topiramate, acamprosate and naltrexone were used as anti-craving agents in a year long prospective study. Of these 92 patients completed the study.

Result and conclusion: Topiramate (76.3%) appears to be significantly more effective (p<0.01) in sustaining abstinence, though naltrexone (57.7%) and acamprosate (60.70%) offer moderate relapse-prevention efficacy. Side effects of all the three agents have been mild, transient and self-limiting. We recommend a trial of topiramate, before invaliding out of any alcoholic soldier.

Keywords: Acamprosate; Alcohol dependence syndrome; Naltrexone; Topiramate.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Efficacy comparisons of Topiramate, Naltrexone and Acamprosate
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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