Alexander DeLuca, M.D.
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Sandra - MM @ maelstrom.stjohns.edu - Posted to listServ on 12/26/2000; posted here: 6/16/2001; last revised: 5/20/2003

Hi everyone,
A week ago I bought an 18-pack of Miller Lite (my drink of choice) from the Diamond Shamrock, and proceeded to drink it. Only 5 beers were left in the refrigerator, and they're still there. Seven days later, they're still there. Unheard of for me? Get this, I don't even want them. I've had no cravings for alcohol, no urges, drinking beer has hasn't crossed my mind for more than an instant, and when it does the thought pops into my head, 'I don't want a beer'. So I grab a diet coke. It's absolutely amazing, I still can't believe it sometimes. Those of you who have have known me for the last year know the stuggle I've had with moderating. . .

So I did something drastic. Went to a psychologist, who sent me to a psychiatrist, who prescribed naltrexone. This prescription is really
something. . .it controls the cravings, controls the urges, it blocks some receptors or something in the brain and blocks the high from the alcohol. It blocks the pleasurable effects of alcohol, and the desire to drink, and if I do drink one or two it controls the compelling urge for more more more.

The psychiatrist tells me though that this is not a miracle drug. But if given to a willing person, and combined with psychotherapy and support from family and friends (of which I consider all of you as my friends) that it is very effective. No kidding! I'll be on it for a year. And yes, my goal is still moderation, it's still achievable.

Expensive? You better believe it!!! I had to go outside my HMO health plan for this treatment, and they do not pay for the weekly psychologist's visit or the monthly psychiatrist's visits (but strangely enough do pay for the naltrexone). I was whining to a friend about how much this is costing, and my friend said (from personal experience) Yeah, it's expensive, but keep in mind. . .it's cheaper than a DUI ;-)