Which of the following medications reduces cravings for alcohol?

Prepare for the Advanced Pharmacology – Psychopharmacology exam. Study with interactive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations for each question. Enhance your understanding and ace your test!

Acamprosate is a medication that effectively reduces cravings for alcohol, making it particularly useful in the management of alcohol dependence. It works by modulating the glutamatergic system and enhancing GABAergic activity in the brain, which helps to restore the balance altered by prolonged alcohol use. By alleviating cravings, Acamprosate supports individuals in maintaining abstinence from alcohol following detoxification.

Other medications listed have different mechanisms of action and uses. For instance, Naloxone primarily serves as an opioid antagonist used to reverse opioid overdoses, and it does not address alcohol cravings. Disulfiram functions by creating an aversive reaction to alcohol consumption, discouraging intake but not directly affecting cravings. Varenicline is utilized for smoking cessation by affecting nicotine receptors but has no role in alcohol craving management. Thus, Acamprosate stands out as the specific treatment aimed at reducing cravings associated with alcohol use disorder.

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