Nalmefene for reducing alcohol consumption in people with alcohol dependence

  • Technology appraisal guidance
  • TA325
  • Published: 
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1 Guidance

1.1 Nalmefene is recommended within its marketing authorisation, as an option for reducing alcohol consumption, for people with alcohol dependence:

  • who have a high drinking risk level (defined as alcohol consumption of more than 60 g per day for men and more than 40 g per day for women, according to the World Health Organization's drinking risk levels) without physical withdrawal symptoms and

  • who do not require immediate detoxification.

    The marketing authorisation states that nalmefene should:

  • only be prescribed in conjunction with continuous psychosocial support focused on treatment adherence and reducing alcohol consumption and

  • be initiated only in patients who continue to have a high drinking risk level 2 weeks after initial assessment.