As millions of Americans battle alcohol abuse problems each year, public health officials suggest that two often overlooked medications might offer relief to some.
More than 18 million people abuse or are dependent on alcohol, yet a key study funded by the federal government reported last year that only 20 percent will ever receive treatment of any kind. In fact, just slightly more than 1 million seek any type of formal help, ranging from a meeting with a counselor or a doctor to entering a specialized treatment program.