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Medication Support for Alcohol and Drug Recovery

The right medication, combined with therapy, can reduce cravings, prevent a return to heavy drinking, and help you regain control. We integrate FDA-approved medications into personalized treatment plans.

Now Available

GLP-1 Medications: A New Frontier

Emerging research shows that GLP-1 receptor agonists originally developed for diabetes and weight management may significantly reduce alcohol cravings and consumption. In collaboration with local addiction medicine physicians, qualifying patients under our care can now potentially access these helpful medications as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.

Mounjaro/Zepbound (Tirzepatide)

Dual GIP/GLP-1 Receptor Agonist

  • Targets both GIP and GLP-1 receptors for a dual mechanism of action
  • Over the past 2+ years, we have seen very encouraging results in patients taking this medication
  • Weekly oral tablets or by injection
  • May also support weight management during recovery

Ozempic/Wegovy (Semaglutide)

GLP-1 Receptor Agonist

  • Growing clinical and research evidence for reducing alcohol cravings and consumption
  • Shown in early studies to reduce alcohol intake and cravings
  • Weekly oral tablets or by injection
  • Currently being studied in multiple clinical trials for alcohol use

"GLP-1 medications represent the most exciting pharmacological development in the treatment of alcohol use disorders in decades. For the right patients, they can significantly reduce alcohol cravings and consumption levels and prevent a return to heavy drinking patterns."

— Dr. Arnold Washton

Note: GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved for diabetes and weight management. Their use for alcohol cravings is considered off-label and is based on emerging clinical evidence.

FDA-Approved Medications for Alcohol Use

These medications have been rigorously tested and approved by the FDA to help people reduce or stop drinking. Each works differently, and we match the right medication to your specific situation.

Naltrexone

ReVia (oral) / Vivitrol (injection)

Blunts the pleasurable effects of alcohol, making it easier to drink less or stop entirely.

  • Reduces cravings and the rewarding effects of alcohol
  • Available as a daily pill or monthly injection
  • Can be used while still drinking (supports gradual reduction)
  • Non-addictive with a well-established safety profile

Acamprosate

Campral

Restores the brain's chemical balance disrupted by chronic alcohol use, easing the discomfort of early sobriety.

  • Reduces anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia after quitting
  • Works best for those committed to abstinence
  • Taken three times daily as an oral tablet
  • Does not cause unpleasant reactions if you drink

Disulfiram

Antabuse

Creates a strong deterrent by causing unpleasant physical reactions if you drink alcohol.

  • Acts as a powerful "safety net" against impulsive drinking
  • Taken once daily as an oral tablet
  • Most effective when motivated to maintain abstinence
  • Often used as a short-term tool during early recovery

Additional Options (Off-Label)

Gabapentin

Neurontin

Originally developed for seizures and nerve pain, gabapentin has shown promise in reducing alcohol cravings and improving sleep during early recovery. It may be especially helpful for those with anxiety or insomnia related to alcohol withdrawal.

Topiramate

Topamax

An anticonvulsant that has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing heavy drinking days and cravings. Topiramate works on multiple brain pathways and may be a good option when FDA-approved medications have not been sufficient.

Medications for Opioid Dependence

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the gold standard for opioid dependence. These medications relieve withdrawal, block cravings, and dramatically reduce the risk of relapse.

Buprenorphine

Suboxone / Subutex

A partial opioid agonist that relieves cravings and withdrawal without producing a high.

  • Can be prescribed and taken at home
  • Sublingual tablet or film dissolved under the tongue
  • Suboxone includes naloxone to deter misuse
  • Long-term maintenance or gradual tapering options

Naltrexone

Vivitrol (monthly injection)

Blocks opioid receptors completely, making relapse virtually impossible while on the medication.

  • Monthly injection eliminates daily compliance concerns
  • Non-addictive opioid blocker
  • Also effective for reducing alcohol cravings
  • Requires full opioid detox before starting

Supervised Tapering

Medically Guided Reduction

For those who want to discontinue opioids entirely, a gradual and medically supervised reduction is safer and more comfortable.

  • Individualized tapering schedule based on your use
  • Medical monitoring throughout the process
  • Comfort medications to manage withdrawal symptoms
  • Behavioral support to prevent return to use

Medication for Co-Occurring Psychiatric Conditions

Addiction rarely exists in isolation. Many of our clients also struggle with depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions that fuel substance use. Treating both together is often essential for lasting recovery.

Depression & Anxiety

Untreated depression and anxiety are among the most common drivers of relapse. When substance use masks underlying mood disorders, removing the substance without addressing the mood can feel unbearable.

  • SSRIs and SNRIs for depression and generalized anxiety
  • Non-addictive anxiolytics for acute anxiety management
  • Careful avoidance of benzodiazepines in addiction-prone individuals

Mood Disorders & ADHD

Bipolar disorder and ADHD are frequently underdiagnosed in adults with substance use problems. Proper medication management can reduce impulsivity and mood instability that drive substance use.

  • Mood stabilizers for bipolar spectrum conditions
  • Non-stimulant ADHD medications when appropriate
  • Careful assessment to distinguish substance effects from underlying disorders

We collaborate with board-certified addiction psychiatrists who specialize in diagnosing and treating co-occurring psychiatric conditions alongside addiction.

Why Medication Works Best with Therapy

A Powerful Combination

Medication addresses the biological side of addiction — cravings, withdrawal, and neurochemical imbalances. But addiction is not purely biological. Habits, triggers, relationships, and emotional patterns all play a role.

Therapy addresses the psychological and behavioral factors that medication alone cannot. Together, they produce outcomes that neither can achieve on its own.

  • Higher rates of sustained recovery
  • Better management of stress and triggers
  • Reduced risk of relapse after stopping medication
  • Improved relationships, mood, and quality of life

What Medication Does

  • Reduces or eliminates cravings
  • Eases withdrawal symptoms
  • Blocks the rewarding effects of substances
  • Stabilizes brain chemistry
  • Creates a biological buffer against impulsive use

What Therapy Does

  • Identifies and changes patterns that lead to use
  • Builds coping skills for stress, boredom, and social pressure
  • Addresses underlying emotional and relationship issues
  • Provides accountability and structure
  • Prepares you for long-term success after medication ends

Medication is Optional

We never pressure anyone into taking medication. Some clients prefer a purely behavioral approach, and that is completely valid. Others find that medication gives them the extra edge they need to succeed.

Our role is to educate you about the options, share the evidence, and support whatever decision feels right for you. Whether you choose medication or not, the quality of the treatment we deliver remains the same.

Dr. Arnold Washton, Addiction Psychologist

Dr. Arnold Washton

Addiction Psychologist | Author

For over 50 years, Dr. Washton has helped executives, physicians, attorneys, and entrepreneurs overcome alcohol and drug problems. He integrates medication into treatment plans when appropriate, always as part of a comprehensive approach that includes therapy and behavioral strategies.

A pioneer in addiction psychology, Dr. Washton has served as a consultant to the White House, FDA, and U.S. Senate on substance abuse policy. He is the author of 9 books and over 50 professional articles on addiction treatment.

Dr. Lori Washton, Women & Adolescent Specialist

Dr. Lori Washton

Women & Adolescent Specialist

With over 30 years of clinical experience, Dr. Lori Washton specializes in treating women and adolescents with substance use and co-occurring mental health issues. She works closely with addiction psychiatrists to ensure that medication decisions are informed, individualized, and integrated into a complete treatment plan.

Her approach combines cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic techniques, focusing on the unique pressures and circumstances that women and young people face in recovery.

Related Resources

Alcohol Treatment

Moderation management and abstinence options for professionals.

Cocaine & Opioids

Specialized treatment for stimulant and opioid dependence.

Can Medication Help?

How medications support moderation and abstinence goals.

Video Library

Watch Dr. Washton discuss treatment approaches and recovery.

Explore Whether Medication Can Help You

Schedule a confidential consultation to discuss medication options. No obligation, no pressure. We'll help you understand what's available and whether it's right for your situation.

Schedule a Consultation Call (212) 944-8444