Abordagem terapêutica da dependência alcoólica

Abstract

Objectives: to present a comprehensive and current approach for the treatment of alcohol dependence. To provide the best support to both patients and their families, family physicians should know these kind of interventions and work with the other levels of alcohol dependent care. Methods: to make a review of the treatment approach of alcohol dependence. Results: the therapeutic approach to the alcoholic patients involves two stages: detoxification and maintenance of abstinence. In the former, the goals are the prevention and treatment of the withdrawal syndrome. In the latter it is necessary to help the patient to organise his life without alcohol consumption and to prevent relapse. Conclusions: the most effective approach in the current treatment of alcoholism is the combination of pharmacological and psychosocial therapies, both in the detoxification and in the maintenance and rehabilitation states.