Verlangen nach Alkohol (craving) bei alkoholabhangigen

The concept of craving is discussed more frequently since the development and introduction of drugs for the relapse prevention of alcoholics (so-called 'anticraving' drugs). However, clinical studies concerning craving are widely lacking. The available studies yielded controversial results. The aim of this study was to estimate the frequency of craving in inpatients, who were not exposed to alcohol-related stimuli, and to elucidate factors having an impact on craving. The sample (102 cases, mean age 44.1 ± 10.9 years) consists of two groups of chronic alcoholics (participants of long term (16 weeks) inpatient treatment, and inpatients after detoxification), who were administered a short questionnaire. Our results show that 75% of the chronic alcoholics reported the experience of craving. Craving occurs more frequently in alcoholics who have become addicted at younger age. The intention to take drugs for relapse prevention increases with the frequency of craving.