A comparative study using Disulfiram and Naltrexone in alcohol-dependent adolescents

Aims: There are currently three agents approved by US-FDA for the pharmacotherapy of alcohol dependence, namely Naltrexone, Disulfiram and Acamprosate. The present study aimed to clinically compare Disulfiram (DSF) and Naltrexone (NTX) and their efficacy in relapse prevention in adolescents in a routine clinical setting.Design: Fifty-two adolescents with alcohol dependence with supportive family members that would ensure medical compliance and follow up were randomized to 6 months of treatment with DSF or NTX. Weekly group psycho-education was also provided. The psychiatrist, patient and family member were not blind to the treatment prescribed. Measurements: Alcohol consumption, craving and adverse events were recorded weekly for 4 months and then fortnightly. Serum gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) was measured at the start and end of the study.Results: At the end of the study, 46 patients were still in contact. Relapse occurred at a mean of 93 days with DSF compared to 63 days for NTX. 84.61% patients on DSF remained abstinent compared to 53.85% with NTX.Conclusions: DSF was superior to NTX in promoting abstinence in adolescents with alcohol dependence having good family support.