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August 24, 2005
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| Researchers are looking at more drug therapy options for treating alcoholism. (Photo by Chris Furlong/Getty Images) |
St. Paul, Minn. — Public safety officials have long recognized the adverse effect of alcohol on the roads, and this weekend Minnesota officials are intensifying enforcement of the new .08 blood alcohol limit for drivers.
At the same time, medical professionals have also recognized the adverse affects of alcohol on the body -- it's estimated about 1 in every 13 adults abuses alcohol, and more than 100,000 Americans die of alcohol-related causes.
Alcoholism has long been defined as a disease, but until now the treatment has not moved beyond the therapy and abstinence programs similar to the 12-step program.
New evidence is pointing toward treatment with a medication that would reduce the cravings. Researchers have been testing a muscle spasm drug called baclofen to see if it discourages people from drinking alcohol.
Dr. Jon Hallberg, a regular medical analyst on All Things Considered, talked with MPR's Tom Crann about the latest research on alcoholism. To listen to the interview, choose the audio link in the right column.
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