Hi Kath (and all others who are concerned with medication side effects).

You are all correct to be cautious and empowered consumers because it is true that there is no "perfect treatment drug" for alcohol addiction.

"We are desperate for anything that might improve patient outcome or decrease the number of drinks consumed per day." This is a quote from Robert Forman of the Treatment Research Institute in Philadelphia.

Why are we concerned and working with medications that may have some side effects? All medications whether for heart failure or diabetes have side effects for certain people. We have to balance the risk and the benefit. With existing therapies only a scant 1/3 who are treated for alcohol addiction are in remission one year later.

The disease of alcohol addiction is progressive and, if unchecked, ultimately fatal. This is a very serious disease and those who have it require aggressive treatment so they can be free from an addiction that will ultimately destroy their chance for good health. I strongly suggest that you continue to work with your health care providers and seek the greatest team approach possible: nutritional support, medications, counseling. Continue to work so that your life is free of alcohol. Weigh the risk and benefit of all therapies.

Kath: if you liver is functioning as poorly as you report, it's even more important to be alcohol free so that if necessary you can qualify for a liver transplant. The University of Washington in Seattle is an excellent center and I'm sure they could send you and your medical provider information on the program.

Hope this helps put things into perspective.

--Dr Garcia