Several medications have been specifically approved for the treatment of AUD and the reduction of cravings. Naltrexone, for instance, has been found to reduce the frequency of heavy drinking days and lower overall alcohol consumption. Acamprosate (Campral) is another medication that helps ease withdrawal symptoms, such as insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, and depression, which often accompany alcohol cessation. Mindfulness plays a significant role in long-term addiction recovery by fostering self-awareness and resilience. As individuals become more attuned to their internal states, they are better equipped to manage urges.

Stress and anxiety

Dandelion also facilities the normal production of bile and stimulates its flow. It contains the polysaccharide insulin, which enhances the body’s immunity and the production of white blood cells. Your cost for naltrexone will depend on your treatment plan and insurance coverage. You may also have to pay for an office visit with a doctor to receive an injection of naltrexone or a prescription for the pill form.

How do I know if I have an alcohol addiction?

While there is no cure for alcoholism, there are some natural remedies that can help mitigate the effects of alcohol on the body. These include milk thistle, which can help protect the liver from damage, and kudzu, which has been shown to reduce alcohol cravings. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. Medications such as Acamprosate, Antabuse, and Naltrexone can help reduce alcohol cravings and prevent relapse.

Purchase options and add-ons

We have personally tried VITINITY Anti Alcohol Drink Support Supplement and found it to be a helpful addition to our alcohol-free journey. The multi-vitamin fortification provides a strong foundation for recovery and fights against lethargy and fatigue common to alcohol cleansing. The liver cleanse is also a great addition to the supplement, as it helps manage symptoms of craving, irritability, and fatigue without disturbing your daily life. Research shows that naltrexone works best for people who have already stopped drinking for at least 4 days when they begin treatment. You take it daily as a pill or get a monthly injection at your health care professional’s office. The medication can help you have fewer days when you drink heavily as well as drink less overall.

• Turner notes the importance of bringing along a trusted support person when attending events that involve alcohol.
• The most well-known cannabinoid, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), produces intoxication or euphoria and can help ease pain and nausea.
• Remember that developing healthy coping mechanisms takes time and practice, but it is an important part of the recovery process.
• These groups are typically led by individuals who have gone through similar experiences and understand the challenges of quitting drinking naturally.

Strategies to reduce cravings for alcohol

Internal triggers are curb alcohol cravings: 3 medications and 5 natural remedies to drink less or quit thoughts, feelings, sensations, and beliefs that fuel the urge to drink. They can be puzzling as the urge to drink seems to «pop up» without an obvious cause. However, if you pause and reflect, you may find that the craving was triggered by a fleeting thought, a positive emotion, a negative emotion, or a physical sensation.

If you are unable to quit drinking with support groups and therapy alone, you may benefit from intensive outpatient treatment. Many rehabs and treatment centers now offer virtual programs that treat alcohol use disorder. They’ll be able to offer advice and point you in the direction of specialist rehab, if appropriate. Most commonly used to treat depression, St. John’s wort may also help curb the urge to drink.

With patience, determination, and the right support system in place, you can overcome your addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. Quitting alcohol can be a difficult and challenging journey, and it’s important to set achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed or discouraged. Detoxification programs can provide medical supervision and support as you withdraw from alcohol. Consider seeking out a reputable program with experienced professionals. Tai chi is a slow-paced, therapeutic martial art widely practiced in some Asian countries. Studies show that tai chi can help relieve the anxiety and depression that sometimes come with alcohol withdrawal.

In addition to AA, there are many other support groups available for those struggling with alcohol addiction. These include SMART Recovery, Women for Sobriety, and Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS), among others. Do some research to find the group that best fits your needs and preferences. Consider spending less time with friends who drink heavily or who encourage you to drink. Instead, seek out new social activities and groups that align with your goals of sobriety. This could include joining a sports team, taking up a new hobby, or attending sober events in your community.

Lack of sleep can contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression, which can all trigger alcohol cravings. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and establish a consistent sleep routine. This is a personal decision that should be made in consultation with your doctor or addiction specialist. In some cases, moderate drinking may be possible for those in recovery, while in other cases it may not be advisable. It’s important to be honest with yourself about your ability to control your drinking and make decisions that prioritize your long-term health and well-being.

• For example, if you tend to drink when you’re stressed, find healthy ways to manage stress such as exercise or meditation.
• Alcohol use disorder has also been linked to a higher risk of several cancers, including colon, breast, oral, liver, and throat cancers.
• For this reason, those who struggle with alcohol are often told to take vitamin B1.
• One is that it raises your blood alcohol levels faster, which means you may feel intoxicated sooner.
• Satisfying hobbies can distract you from wanting to drink, but they also help you relax — something everyone needs to do.

When done this way consistently over several months, a person may lose the desire to drink entirely. It’s your choice to take medication, and it’s just one part of a treatment plan, which should typically involve counselling for ongoing support. Having people in your corner who understand and support your sobriety is essential.

Knowing that someone understands what you’re going through can make a big difference in your journey. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and has gained popularity in Western countries as a complementary treatment for addiction.