New Medication Offers Hope For Alcoholics (NAPSA)—Thereis currently no cure for alcoholism, which affects eight million Americans and accounts for 100,000 deaths each year. But an improved understanding of the disease and the arrival of new treatment options are helping to break down barriers and provide physicians with more effective tools for treatment. “Alcohol dependence is a serious disorder, and it warrants the use of whatever options are reasonable and safe which in my view, should routinely include medication,” said Henry Kranzler, MD, Professor of Psychiatry, Alcohol Research Center, University of Connecticut School of Medicine. In a report titled, “Empowering Resources in the Battle against Alcoholism,” Healthy Solutions, a distributor of health care-related television and Web content, recently examined the newest FDA-approved drug for the treatment of alcohol dependence. For the first time in a decade, the FDA has approved a new medication for the treatment of this chronic disease. Campral (acamprosate) is indicated to help patients maintain abstinence from alcohol when combined with behavioral support. “It’s not willpower that is going to get you throughthis, it is a disease, and medication is going to help you,” explained alcoholic in recovery, Jennifer Baker, 39. “If you combine that with counseling you have a great combination and a great base to get you over that hurdle.” New medications such as Campral, when taken as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes psychosocial support, eS ‘ : oc For thefirst time in a decade, the FDA has approved a new medication to treat alcoholism. provide patients with various options, allowing them to lead full and productive lives. For more information about alcohol dependence and alcoholism, visit www.campral.com. National Alcohol Screening Day is a one-day event in April to raise awareness on alcohol and health, help individuals evaluate their alcohol use, and provide referrals to local treatment and support resources for those who need further evaluation. For more information, visit www.NationalAlcoholScreening Day.org. Healthy Solutions segments are featured in streaming video on the show’s Web site for quick and easy access. Simply log on to www.healthy solutions.tv and watch “ondemand.” Newsrooms also use Healthy Solutions, since each segment is reformatted and distributed via satellite as a Video News Release to over 750 television stations.
