Alcohol dependence is an illness marked by consumption of alcoholic beverages at a level that interferes with physical or mental health, and social, family, or occupational responsibilities. People with alcohol dependence, usually experience tolerance where there is a need for markedly increased amounts of alcohol to achieve intoxication or the desired effect, and withdrawal symptoms when alcohol is discontinued or intake is decreased. Medication such as naltrexone and acamprosate in some cases can help reduce cravings. Alternatively disulfiram may be prescribed, which creates an incentive not to drink, because drinking alcohol while taking it causes nausea and vomiting.
