I NEED A RESPONSE TO THIS ASSIGNMENT. 2 REFERNCES Alcoholism is one of the leading causes of liver disease worldwide and the goal for these individuals is abstinence. There are many treatment modalities that can be employed for alcoholism including a 12-step program such as AA where they can find the support of people who have the same goal, brief interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy to address any misguided thinking, motivational enhancement therapy, and one of the many FDA approved medications that can be given to reduce craving of alcohol (Leggio & Lee, 2017). One of the most important part of treating an individual with alcohol use disorder is addressing withdrawal symptoms as these can be deadly. Symptoms of withdrawal include nausea, vomiting, tremors, anxiety, insomnia, and in severe cases, delirium and seizures. Withdrawals protocols typically include the use of benzodiazepine to reduce symptoms of withdrawal, and prevent seizures. There are three drugs currently that are approved for the treatment of alcohol use disorder, these include, disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone. While these medications can be helpful in reducing cravings and deter drinking, psychiatric treatment to address underlying issues is necessary for there to be any meaningful recovery (Witkiewitz, Litten, & Leggio, 2019). References Leggio, L., & Lee, M. R. (2017). Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder in Patients with Alcoholic Liver Disease. , (2), 124–134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2016.10.004 Witkiewitz, K., Litten, R. Z., & Leggio, L. (2019). Advances in the science and treatment of alcohol use disorder. , (9). https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.aax4043

Alcoholism is a significant contributor to liver disease globally, with abstinence being the primary goal for individuals affected by this condition. Various treatment modalities are available, including participation in a 12-step program such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), where individuals can find support from others with the same goal. In addition to AA, other options include brief interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to address any distorted thinking patterns, motivational enhancement therapy (MET), and the use of FDA-approved medications to reduce alcohol cravings (Leggio & Lee, 2017).

When treating individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD), it is crucial to address the potentially dangerous symptoms of withdrawal. These symptoms can range from nausea, vomiting, and tremors to anxiety, insomnia, delirium, and seizures in severe cases. Withdrawal protocols commonly incorporate the use of benzodiazepines to alleviate these symptoms and prevent seizures (Leggio & Lee, 2017).

Currently, there are three medications approved for the treatment of AUD: disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone. These medications can be effective in reducing cravings and discouraging alcohol consumption. However, it is important to note that for meaningful recovery, psychiatric treatment must also address any underlying mental health issues (Witkiewitz, Litten, & Leggio, 2019).

This response aimed to provide a brief overview of the treatment options available for individuals with alcoholism, focusing on the goal of abstinence. It highlighted the importance of addressing withdrawal symptoms, which can be life-threatening, and discussed the three FDA-approved medications commonly used to reduce alcohol cravings and discourage consumption. Additionally, it emphasized the necessity of psychiatric treatment to address underlying mental health concerns.

Two relevant references have been provided to support the information provided. The first reference, Leggio and Lee (2017), discusses the treatment of alcohol use disorder in patients with alcoholic liver disease, while the second reference, Witkiewitz, Litten, and Leggio (2019), explores recent advances in the science and treatment of alcohol use disorder.

Together, this information provides a solid foundation for understanding the treatment options available for individuals with alcoholism and the need for comprehensive care to address both physical and mental health aspects. Further research and clinical evaluation are needed to continuously improve and refine these treatment modalities, ultimately leading to increased rates of successful recovery.