Insights on Effectiveness of Homeopathy in Alcohol Use Disorder in Individuals with a Family History of Alcoholism: A Retrospective Study

Background: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a serious psychological and medical condition affecting 1 to 3% of the global population, with higher prevalence in India and Kerala. Despite available treatments, relapse rates remain high. Individuals with a family history of alcoholism are at increased risk when compounded by emotional instability and neuroticism. Homeopathy has shown potential in managing AUD and alleviating withdrawal symptoms without adverse side effects. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of homeopathic treatment for alcohol dependence, along with withdrawal symptoms in individuals with a family history of alcoholism. The Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment Scale for Alcohol, Revised (CIWA-AR) measures withdrawal severity, and the Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ) assesses the level of dependence. Methods: A 6-month retrospective study was conducted at NHRIMH, Kottayam, with ethical approval granted on February 13, 2024. Patients were selected from the out- and in-patient department records between January 2022 and 2024. Out of 140 screened cases, 100 met the inclusion criteria as per ICD-10 diagnostic guidelines. The severity of withdrawal symptoms was measured using CIWA-AR at baseline, day 3, and day 5. Alcohol dependence was assessed using SADQ at baseline, the third month, and the sixth month. Results: Out of 140 cases, 100 met the inclusion criteria. The Shapiro–Wilk test showed significant deviation in SADQ and CIWA scores. Friedman test revealed a significant reduction in SADQ scores (baseline: 35, 3 months: 15, 6 months: 3; χ 2 =180.529, p < 0.001) and CIWA scores (baseline: 12, day 3: 5, fifth day: 0; χ 2 =193.401, p < 0.001). Homeopathic remedies are found, like Arsenicum album, Ranunculus bulbosus, for withdrawal symptoms, and Nux vomica , Medorrhinum , and Lycopodium clavatum for AUD. Conclusion: Homeopathy shows effectiveness in treating alcohol dependence along with withdrawal symptoms in individuals with a family history of alcoholism. Further validation through larger studies is recommended.