Prescribing Pattern of Anti-Craving Drugs Among Alcohol Use Disorder Patients

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a chronic disease characterized by excessive drinking, increased craving, development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms toward alcohol. Anti-craving drugs, psychotherapy, and supportive therapy (vitamin supplements) play a major role in managing AUD and preventing relapse. This study focuses on the prescribing pattern of anti-craving drugs among AUD patients. Methodology A prospective observational study was conducted for 6 months in the Department of Psychiatry of a multispeciality hospital in south India with a sample size of 169 AUD patients. Anti-craving drugs of each patient were analyzed. Results Males were majorly diagnosed with AUD. Approximately equal distribution of newly diagnosed cases and existing cases were seen. Most of the inpatients were treated with anti-craving drugs like benzodiazepines, ondansetron, baclofen, or topiramate, while outpatients were treated with benzodiazepines, ondansetron, or baclofen along with psychotherapy and supportive therapy. Craving was the common factor for relapse. Conclusion Patients were initially treated with the benzodiazepines in tapering or continued dose, along with ondansetron, baclofen, or topiramate. Psychotherapy and supportive therapy were given to all the patients and most of them were discharged with benzodiazepines, ondansetron, or baclofen. Several factors played a significant role in the starting of alcohol and relapse.