Is alcohol use disorder the same as alcoholism?

Yes, alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the medical term that encompasses what was previously known as alcoholism, alcohol dependence, or alcohol abuse. It is a chronic medical condition characterized by difficulty controlling or stopping alcohol consumption, despite the negative social, professional, or health consequences that may result. AUD can range from mild to severe and is considered a brain disorder. Lasting changes in the brain resulting from alcohol misuse contribute to the persistence of the disorder and make individuals susceptible to relapse [3].

AUD is a serious public health problem and can affect anyone. It is important to understand that this disorder is not a weakness of will, but a medical condition that requires treatment and support. The good news is that regardless of how severe the problem may be, evidence-based treatments—such as behavioral therapies, mutual-support groups, and medications—can help people with AUD achieve and maintain recovery [3].

What is alcohol use disorder (AUD)?

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterized by a strong craving to drink, loss of control over the amount consumed once started, and experiencing a negative emotional state, such as anxiety and irritability, when not drinking [1]. The severity of the disorder can range from mild to severe based on the number of symptoms a person experiences. The severe form of AUD is sometimes known as alcoholism or alcohol dependence [1].

Signs and symptoms of alcohol use disorder

The presence of two or more of the following signs within the past year may indicate the presence of alcohol use disorder [1]:

• Drinking more or for longer than intended.
• Wanting to cut down or stop drinking but being unable to do so.
• Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from its effects.
• Feeling a strong need to drink (cravings).
• Drinking or sickness from drinking interfering with family life, work, or school.
• Continuing to drink despite problems with family or friends.
• Giving up or reducing enjoyable activities in order to drink.
• Engaging in risky situations while or after drinking, such as driving under the influence [1].
• Continuing to drink despite worsening depression, anxiety, or another health problem.
• Needing to drink more to get the same effect (alcohol tolerance).
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the effects of alcohol wear off, such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, irritability, anxiety, nausea, sweating, or in severe cases, fever, seizures, or hallucinations [1].

The more symptoms a person has, the more severe the problem [1].

The impact of alcohol on the body and health

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to serious health consequences. Heavy drinking increases the risk of certain types of cancer and can lead to liver diseases, such as alcohol-associated liver disease and cirrhosis. It can also cause damage to the brain and other organs [1]. There is no scientific evidence that anything can prevent liver damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption; the best way to avoid liver damage is not to misuse alcohol [2].

When to seek help?

If you suspect that you may have alcohol use disorder, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for an evaluation. A healthcare provider can help develop a treatment plan, prescribe medications, and, if necessary, refer you to specialized treatments [1]. People with severe AUD may need medical help to avoid dangerous withdrawal symptoms when stopping, as doctors can prescribe medications to make this process safer and more comfortable [3].

Many evidence-based treatment approaches are available for AUD, including behavioral therapies (talk therapy), mutual-support groups, and approved medications. These treatments can be used individually or in combination [3]. Recovery is possible, but relapses are common, and seeking professional help early can prevent a return to drinking. For more information on this topic, you can visit Alcohol use disorder: signs, impact on life, and when to seek help (Arabic).

Medical references

• Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
• Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder
• Questions & Answers