Expert: Amarnath.B - 5/1/2008

Question
My uncle is a heavy drinker from about 20 years back. Earlier due to being young there was almost no physical effects of heavy drinking on him, but now even his body is getting weak and is not able to stand the bad effects of drinking.Besides it the biggest problem due to his heavy drinking is his behaviour towards others. After drinking he is getting violent,also the entire atmosphere of home is posioned.Entrire family life is disturbed.Though my uncle is intelligent but he is not willing to accept professional help or counceling.

Now my question to you is there any medicine which we can give to him without telling him through which his drinking can be stopped ,as he is not ready to go to doctor? Any other treatment or suggestion in this regard is most welcomed.  

Answer
Dear Gaurav,

Alcoholism is a disease and cannot be cured by any medicine. It can only be arrested by staying stopped.  There is no medicine yet, to cure alcoholism.

Now you haven't told me how old is your uncle.  One way of treatment is to admit him to a rehabilitation center for alcoholics. Here he will be detoxed and counseled about the ill-effects of alcohol.  But the only way to stay stop is to attend AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) meeting for the rest of his life.  Millions of men and women have become sober and are leading a beautiful life through AA.

Tell me the area where you reside and I shall guide you to the nearest treatment center and AA group.


God bless


Amarnath