Effects of topiramate in the treatment of alcohol dependence

BACKGROUND: Anticonvulsant drugs have been used in the treatment of alcohol addiction with relatively good results. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate tolerance and safety of topiramate in patients presenting alcohol dependence. METHODS: We studied 24 patients that fulfilled alcohol-dependence criteria (DSM-IV) and presented other psychiatric disorders for which the use of topiramate was indicated. During the 12 weeks of the study, the patients received topiramate (262 mg/day) plus the psychoactive drugs they were taking for the other disorders. Carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT) values and measures of craving and alcohol use were taken every 2 weeks. RESULTS: Baseline rating of amount and frequency of craving and alcohol use decreased significantly by week 2, and CDT values decreased from week 6. Topiramate was well tolerated, and there were only three dropouts due to adverse events. CONCLUSION: Topiramate is safe and well tolerated, and may be beneficial in the treatment of alcohol dependence. A placebo-controlled study would be of interest.