Drug treatments option

Although there is no "magic pill" that will cure alcoholism, there are medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration that are used to help people who have stopped drinking to remain sober.

One of the oldest and most well-known "treatments" for alcoholism is Alcoholics Anonymous, a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. Participation in A.A. is free.

Scientific research has shown that participation in support groups, combined with other treatment efforts, is more effective in helping alcoholics remain sober than participating in treatment by itself. For those who do not prefer the 12-step approach, many other support groups are available.

The process of detoxification from alcohol takes three to seven days, after which the alcoholic's dependency on alcohol is primarily psychological, rather than physical or chemical. The goal after detox is to prevent a relapse of excessive drinking.

Thousands of facilities in the United States offer alcohol and drug rehabilitation and treatment services, ranging from short-term residential or in-patient hospitalization to long-term, outpatient counseling and therapy. The goal of these facilities is to help the alcoholic learn how to remain sober and resist the urge to drink.

Detoxification treatment, includes abstinence from alcohol in a controlled environment and close monitoring of vital signs and any withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, detox treatment can also include administering benzodiazepines (tranquilizers such as Valium, Librium, Ativan or Serax)

In 1935 Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith founded the Alcohol Anonymous , during that time in the 1930's and 1940's AA was growing with guiding principals. It is