In view of the enormous social costs of alcoholism every alcoholic sho
uld be treated. The first goal is prevention before an addictive drink
ing behaviour is established. During chronic drinking motivation to de
toxication is urgent. A new instrument for the evaluation of the risk
of developing a severe withdrawal syndrome is proposed in coming to a
decision whether outpatient treatment is possible or not. Based on a n
ew assessment scale of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS-scale) ope
rationalized strategies of detoxification for inpatients are described
in detail, in sobriety clients often complain of craving. Often cravi
ng is accounted for a relapse. The first >>anti-craving<< drug Acampro
sat has recently be introduced into the German market. The chances and
limits of a treatment with the new so-called >>anti-craving<<-drugs a
re shortly discussed.