Bromocriptine in the prevention of alcohol abuse.

In a double-blind trial comprising 50 chronic alcoholics, randomized in two parallel groups, bromocriptine was compared with placebo on psycho-social variables in the prevention of alcohol abuse for 6 months. The overall effects on the abuse situation, social functioning, social belonging and psychic status were significantly bettered by bromocriptine. Craving was reduced from strong to very mild, indicating a distancing effect of bromocriptine on dependency. Neurotic states and depressive reactions were significantly improved by bromocriptine, as were social situation, motivation and personal insight. Global evaluation of bromocriptine treatment was beneficial in most patients, with a substantial reduction in the number of patients abusing alcohol. Our results indicate that bromocriptine may affect the craving.

RCT Entities:   Population Interventions Outcomes