Nalmefene effectiveness in reducing alcohol consumption and prevention of craving: A case report

Abstract

Introduction

Alcohol use disorder is a pressing problem in our society. However, only a small percentage of patients with alcohol use disorder are ever treated. Nalmefene acts as an antagonist of mu opioid receptors preventing the pleasurable sensation that often accompanies alcohol consumption, while its modulation of kappa opioid receptors can decrease the dysphoria associated with alcohol withdrawal.

Aim

Studying the effect of nalmefene on patients with alcohol use disorder who are trying to reduce their daily alcohol consumption.

Methods

This is a descriptive study that pretends to assess the effect of nalmefene 18 mg/day on alcohol intake in a sample of five patients (3 men and 2 women) that came to our psychiatric consultation from March to September 2016. They all had tried in the past to stop or reduce their alcohol consumption but were unable to do so. We initiate follow-up with the patients in psychiatric consultation for the next three months with a monthly frequency.

Results

Out of the 5 patients, 4 reported to have reduced their alcohol consumption over the observation time, going from 32 drinks per week to 18 drinks per week on average. The fifth patient abandoned prematurely the treatment due to the appearance of side effects (nausea). No other relevant side effects were detected.

Conclusions

Nalmefene appears to be effective and safe reducing abusive alcohol intake and avoiding alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Therefore, nalmefene can be considered a good therapeutic option helping reduce alcohol consumption in patients with alcohol use disorder.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.