Which medication helps reduce long-lasting withdrawal symptoms from alcohol?

Acamprosate is recognized for its role in helping to reduce long-lasting withdrawal symptoms from alcohol. It works by stabilizing the chemical balance in the brain that can be disrupted by chronic alcohol consumption. When an individual stops drinking, they often experience a range of withdrawal symptoms; acamprosate helps to ease some of these symptoms, which can include anxiety, insomnia, and mood disturbances.

By modulating neurotransmitter systems, specifically by affecting glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmission, acamprosate promotes a more stable state in individuals recovering from alcohol dependence, thereby supporting their ability to maintain abstinence. This makes it particularly effective in the long-term management of alcohol use disorder.

Other medications listed serve different purposes. For example, disulfiram is used to create an aversive reaction to alcohol but does not directly address withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline is primarily used for smoking cessation, while bupropion is generally employed as an antidepressant and for smoking cessation. Each has its specific application within addiction treatment, but when it comes to alleviating the prolonged withdrawal symptoms associated with alcohol, acamprosate is the most effective option.