Such alcoholics often develop drinking problems early on, have a broad range of antisocial behaviors, and close relatives with alcohol problems. They are also more difficult to treat, according to researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

      However, a study of 20 such alcoholics found that 85% consumed fewer drinks after taking a combination of the drugs ondansetron and naltrexone compared with 34% given an inactive placebo. This group consumed an average of one drink or less per day, compared with three or more drinks in those taking placebo. All the study participants had developed alcoholism before the age of 25.

      "The combination of ondansetron and naltrexone significantly reduced the alcohol consumption of these biological alcoholics, presumably by correcting underlying disequilibrium in (certain) brain systems," said lead author Dr. Bankole A. Johnson in a statement issued by the university.

      The preliminary results, which are published in the May issue of Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, suggest that the combination of drugs may help biologically predisposed alcoholics.

      The researchers are planning follow-up studies to confirm results of the present study and to investigate whether the drugs can help other groups of alcoholics. All study participants also participated in behavioral therapy to address their drinking problems.     

      SOURCE: Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research 2000;24