Efficacy of nalmefene in a sample of patients with alcohol dependence

Abstract

Introduction

It is well known the high rate of alcohol abuse and dependence in Spain. Specifically, in Castilla and Léon as a wine region, the risk of developing alcoholism is 1 of 10 men and 1 of 15 women [1].

Objective

The aim of the study is to assess the efficacy of nalmefene in reducing alcohol consumption and its complications, in a sample of patients with alcoholism.

Materials and methods

It is an open, naturalistic, observational and descriptive study in a sample of 18 patients with alcohol dependence diagnosis.

We collected standard demographic variables, but also living alone, social support and work.

In addition, clinical variables as SD (standard drinks) per day, time of illness, concomitant diseases, number of admissions, periods of abstinence, abstinence longer duration, nalmefene doses and other treatments were collected. These variables were reassessed at first, 3th and 6th month.

Results

In our sample the average profile is a man (75%) with an age of 46, who lives alone (68%), in urban area and with poor social support.

Average SD consumed at the beginning was 53, one month later was 26, after three months was 14 and 6 months later was 5, with a total abstinence rate of 65% at the end of the period. Logically there was also a dramatic reduction in somatic and social complications.

Conclusions

Nalmefene is demonstrated as a useful drug in reducing alcohol consumption and its complications.

Nalmefene also proves to be effective for achieving complete alcohol abstinence starting with a reduction plan.

Reference not available.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.