A new drug to treat alcoholism has enhanced the chances of hard-drinking addicts quitting alcohol, according to research findings in Japan.
While conventional drugs discourage drinking by causing unpleasant symptoms, such as palpitations, nausea and headaches, after alcohol consumption, new drug 'Regtect' improves the chemical balance in the brain to suppress a patient’s craving, the Japan Times reported.
A clinical test of 'Regtect' involving about 320 patients in Japan found that after 24 weeks of use, nearly half achieved abstinence, compared with 36 percent in the placebo group.
However, it does have some side effects, including diarrhea, which are considered as manageable.
Alcohol dependence is a mental disease that can cause serious health problems, including liver, pancreas and brain damage.
— Tokyo, Japan.
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