Alcohol Harm Reduction: A Response to "Balance Your Buzz"

I recently read “Balance Your Buzz”—A Student-Led Alcohol Harm Reduction Initiative

Harm reduction is most often applied to drug use, especially opioids. The harm reduction approach includes the widespread distribution of the opioid reversal medication naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and—where legal—access to syringes.

But what about reducing risky alcohol consumption? Most people who drink are not ready to give up alcohol completely. What have we done for them? Right now, virtually nothing.

The distribution of disposable breathalyzers is a brilliant idea and should be seriously considered. Imagine if bars had supplies of these devices available for their patrons. Most bar owners want to be responsible citizens and do not want to see their customers overly intoxicated.

Another effective way to cut down on drinking is through the FDA-approved anticraving medication naltrexone. The use of naltrexone to reduce drinking is popularized by an approach called The Sinclair Method. There is a lot of good information about this method available online.

Alcohol misuse is a far bigger problem than opioid addiction, yet we have not spent nearly as much time and resources addressing this issue.

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