Alcohol addiction treatment

1. Sobering-up and detox

   If drinking is ongoing, we start with an intravenous drip that restores fluid and electrolyte balance and provides vitamins and magnesium. When needed, we add medication to ease withdrawal symptoms: tremor, anxiety, palpitations and insomnia. Treatment takes place in our day unit under the supervision of a doctor and a nurse. If the patient cannot come to the clinic, we treat them at home.

   A patient without serious other illnesses usually feels better within 1–2 days. If blood alcohol is very high (above 2.0‰), the doctor decides whether day-unit treatment is safe.

2. Consultation once sober

   Once the person is sober, the doctor assesses the severity of the dependence, general health and related problems such as depression, anxiety and sleep disorders. Together we agree on the goal, either stopping completely or cutting down, and make a treatment plan.

3. Treatment that supports sobriety

   • Medication that reduces craving or the amount consumed. For example nalmefene (Selincro). This prescription medicine is taken as needed, 1–2 hours before you expect to drink. Selincro is meant to help reduce drinking and is used together with counselling.
   • Anti-alcohol protection. A medicine that causes a strong unpleasant reaction when combined with alcohol. It is taken by mouth or given as an implant lasting 1–3 years. The reaction can be dangerous, so we only use it after an examination and with the patient's informed consent.
   • Coding and laser coding. Psychotherapeutic methods that aim to build a calm, detached attitude towards alcohol. The effect usually lasts several years, but only if the person truly wants to live sober.

   We choose the method together with the patient. Some methods are not suitable for people with psychiatric illnesses (e.g. schizophrenia).

4. Related problems and follow-up

   Alcohol misuse is often accompanied by depression, anxiety and sleep problems, and we refer to a psychiatrist when needed. We use tranquillisers (e.g. diazepam, alprazolam) with care because they are addictive too. Liver health can be checked with a blood test.

   As supportive methods we also offer TES therapy, Dreamer therapy and PSIO glasses.

Relapse

A relapse means starting to drink again after a sober period. It is common on the road to recovery and does not mean treatment has failed. The risk is highest in the first months after stopping.

What raises the risk: stress and difficult life events; boredom, sadness or anxiety; friends and settings where people drink; lack of support; overconfidence ("I can handle it now").

If a relapse has happened:

• Don't wait. See a doctor and, if needed, go through detox again.
• Work out with the doctor what triggered it: the situation, feelings, people.
• Make a prevention plan for handling cravings, stress and social pressure. Add medication if needed.

Handling social pressure: prepare a short, friendly answer ("No thanks, I don't drink") and repeat it if needed. Keep a non-alcoholic drink in your hand, and leave if the craving gets too strong. Your decision to stay sober deserves respect.