Alcohol Use Disorder
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 9, 2025.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition that causes problems with alcohol use. You are not able to control alcohol use even though it causes negative effects. AUD includes alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence. Alcohol abuse means you drink more than the recommended daily or weekly limits. Alcohol dependence means you have withdrawal symptoms after not drinking for a short period.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US), or have someone call if:
- You have a seizure.
Return to the emergency department if:
- You vomit blood.
Call your doctor if:
- Your heart is beating faster than usual.
- You have hallucinations.
- You cannot remember what happens while you are drinking.
- You are anxious and have nausea.
- Your hands are shaky and you are sweating heavily.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Do not try to stop drinking on your own. Your healthcare provider may need to help you withdraw from alcohol safely. Then you may also need any of the following:
- Medicines to decrease your craving for alcohol
- Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous
- Therapy from a psychiatrist or psychologist
- Admission to an inpatient facility for treatment for severe AUD
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
For support and more information:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
PO Box 2345
Rockville , MD 20847-2345
Web Address: http://www.samhsa.gov or https://dpt2.samhsa.gov/treatment/
- Alcoholics Anonymous
Web Address: http://www.aa.org
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Alcohol Use Disorder
Treatment options
- Medications for Acute Alcohol Intoxication
- Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder
- Medications for Alcoholism
Care guides
Symptoms and treatments
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.