Researchers found acamprosate and oral naltrexone were the most effective drugs in fighting alcoholism.
Alcohol use disorders (AUDs) can increase the risk of death three times, a JAMA Network Journals news release reported.
"When clinicians decide to use one of the medications, a number of factors may help with choosing which medication to prescribe, including the medication's efficacy, administration frequency, cost, adverse events, and availability," the authors said, the news release reported.
Medications can be effective in treating AUDs, but less than five percent of alcoholism patients received this type of treatment.
The researchers looked at 122 randomized trials and one cohort study to make their findings.
The researchers were not able to determine if one drug is superior over the other, but disulfiram has been around since the 1950s which may make clinicians feel more familiar with it.
Some trials have suggested that disulfiram does not effectively work to prevent a return to drinking.
"Treatment of AUD is considered an essential health benefit under health care reform. More patients with AUDs will have insurance, which could increase their access to evidence-based treatments for AUDs. The article by Jonas and colleagues should encourage patients and their clinicians to engage in shared decision making about AUD treatment options. By identifying 4 effective medications for AUD [naltrexone, acamprosate, topiramate, and nalmefene], the authors highlight treatment options for a common medical condition for which patient-centered care is not currently the norm," Katharine A. Bradley, M.D., M.P.H., of the Group Health Research Institute said in the news release.
"Patients with AUDs should be offered options, including medications, evidence-based behavioral treatments, and mutual support for recovery. Moreover, patients should expect shared decision making about the best options for them," she said.
The research was supported in part by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
