Problem drinking--management in general practice.

BACKGROUND

Management of problem drinking presents the general practitioner with similar challenges and rewards to those associated with the management of other chronic conditions.

OBJECTIVE

This article presents a framework for managing alcohol problems in general practice based on national guidelines for the treatment of alcohol problems.

DISCUSSION: General practitioners are well placed to undertake the management of drinking problems following an assessment of the amount of alcohol taken and the risks this poses for the individual and the people around them. This assessment starts the process of engagement and reflection on drinking habits and will inform the appropriate management approach. Brief interventions can result in reduction in drinking in nondependent drinkers. For dependent drinkers, treatment steps include assessing need for withdrawal management and developing a comprehensive management plan, which includes consideration of relapse prevention pharmacotherapy and psychosocial interventions. The patient's right to choose what they drink must be respected, and those who continue to drink in a problematic way can still be assisted, with compassion, within a harm reduction framework.