By TrueMynd Psychiatry
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is one of the most common — and most treatable — medical conditions affecting adults in the United States. Yet many people still believe recovery depends only on willpower. Modern psychiatry and addiction medicine show otherwise. Evidence-based medications, therapy, and supportive care can significantly reduce cravings, prevent relapse, and improve long-term outcomes. At TrueMynd Psychiatry, we view AUD through a medical lens and provide practical, science-driven treatment options for individuals across Pennsylvania through both telehealth and in-person psychiatric care.
Alcohol misuse remains a major public health concern nationwide. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), nearly 29 million U.S. adults meet criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder each year, and alcohol contributes to over 178,000 deaths annually, making it one of the leading preventable causes of death in the country. These numbers highlight why medication-assisted treatment and early intervention matter.
Source: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/
Pennsylvania reflects similar trends. The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) reports that hundreds of thousands of residents seek treatment for substance use disorders each year, with alcohol being one of the most common substances requiring care. Alcohol-related hospitalizations and emergency visits continue to strain families and health systems statewide. Expanding access to psychiatric and addiction treatment — especially telehealth options — is a key strategy for improving outcomes.
Source: https://www.ddap.pa.gov/
One evidence-based option many patients and clinicians are not fully aware of is oral naltrexone. Oral naltrexone is a non-addictive, FDA-approved medication used to treat Alcohol Use Disorder. It reduces cravings and decreases the reinforcing “reward” effects of alcohol. For many people, this means fewer heavy drinking days, improved control, and a greater ability to engage in therapy and lifestyle changes. If you’re exploring treatment options, you can learn more about our psychiatric and addiction services here:
https://truemyndpsychiatry.com/
Understanding how naltrexone works can make the decision clearer. Alcohol activates the brain’s reward pathways, particularly opioid receptors that reinforce repeated drinking. Naltrexone blocks these receptors. When alcohol becomes less rewarding neurologically, cravings often decrease and slips are less likely to escalate into relapses. Importantly, it does not cause dependence, does not produce euphoria, and does not make someone sick if they drink — it simply reduces reinforcement, making behavioral change easier.
Oral naltrexone may be appropriate for adults who want to reduce heavy drinking or work toward abstinence. It can be especially helpful for people who experience strong cravings or repeated relapse despite counseling alone. Treatment is individualized and begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess medical history, goals, and any contraindications. As psychiatric nurse practitioners specializing in addiction medicine, we collaborate closely with each patient to build a personalized, sustainable plan.
Dosing is straightforward. Oral naltrexone is typically taken once daily, does not require tapering, and may begin helping within days, with fuller benefits over several weeks of consistent use. It integrates well with therapy approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and relapse-prevention strategies. Medication works best when paired with education, support, and accountability — not used alone.
Safety and tolerability are also reassuring for most patients. Side effects are usually mild and temporary, including nausea, headache, or fatigue. Because naltrexone blocks opioid receptors, it cannot be used with opioid medications and requires screening before starting. In some cases, baseline liver function tests are recommended. Ongoing communication with a licensed psychiatric provider helps ensure treatment remains safe and effective. Clinical safety details are outlined by SAMHSA here:
https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment
But does it actually work? Research says yes. A large body of evidence summarized by Cochrane Reviews and the American Psychiatric Association shows oral naltrexone reduces heavy drinking days and increases the likelihood of maintaining abstinence, particularly when combined with therapy. It’s also effective for people aiming for reduced-risk drinking rather than complete abstinence — a harm-reduction approach supported by modern addiction science.
Evidence summary: https://www.cochranelibrary.com/
It’s important to remember that medication is one tool — not a test of willpower. Alcohol Use Disorder is a chronic, treatable medical condition, similar to diabetes or hypertension. The most effective care combines medication, psychotherapy, education, and a supportive treatment relationship. At TrueMynd Psychiatry, we use a whole-person model that integrates psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and behavioral health strategies to support lasting change.
If you or someone you care about is considering treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder in Pennsylvania, education is the first step. Oral naltrexone is one of several evidence-based options that can make recovery more achievable. Comprehensive psychiatric care from an experienced Psych NP can help determine whether it’s the right fit. Learn more about addiction and mental health services, referrals, and telehealth appointments here:
👉 https://truemyndpsychiatry.com/