Pharmacological Approaches in Alcohol Use Disorder-Exploring Off-Label an Emerging Treatments in Clinical and Preclinical Evidence

Abstract

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) presents a significant challenge, with limited efficacy and adherence to current FDA-approved treatments. This comprehensive review analyzes the spectrum of pharmacological management for AUD. To examine the efficacy, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential of various drug classes, including metabolic, anticonvulsants, antihypertensives, neuroprotective agents, antibiotics, in the management of AUD. The review identified promising interventions across various drug classes, including PPAR agonists, anticonvulsants, GABAergic drugs, antihypertensives, neuroprotective agents, cognitive enhancers, and tetracycline antibiotics. However, the efficacy of these interventions varied, and individual responses were often heterogeneous. Future research should focus on understanding individual variations in treatment responses and developing personalized approaches. The integration of pharmacological management, supported by clinical and preclinical evidence, may provide the most effective path forward in AUD management.

Keywords: Alcohol Use disorder; AUD; Off-Label AUD treatment; Alcohol dependance