A Review of Medication-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

Authors

Hannah E. Snyder, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Addiction Medicine

Advisor

Dr. Tom Colletti

Abstract

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a DSM-5 diagnosis defined as a dependence on alcohol that leads to continued use even when it causes harm or distress. AUD is the most common substance use disorder in the United States and is often undertreated. One of the ways healthcare providers can help those who suffer from AUD in their journey to recovery is through medication-assisted therapy (MAT). MAT involves using medications in conjunction with psychosocial interventions to treat substance use disorders, including AUD. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three medications for treating AUD. These medications work by either reducing the physiological cravings for alcohol or by creating undesirable symptoms when alcohol is consumed. This article provides an overview of MAT for AUD and the current FDA-approved medications used.

Recommended Citation

Snyder HE. A Review of Medication-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2023; 5(1).