Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Key Takeaways

• Definition: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a dysfunctional pattern of alcohol use leading to serious disruptions in daily functioning or well-being. This condition can range in severity, with more serious forms of the disorder encompassing what was previously known as alcohol abuse, dependence, addiction, and alcoholism.
• Symptoms: AUD is characterized by symptoms such as drinking more than intended, failed attempts to cut down, cravings, and continued use despite negative consequences. In more severe cases, withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, tremors, and nausea.
• Treatment: Treatment for AUD differs based on severity levels and may include medically supervised detoxification to manage withdrawal, rehabilitation programs (ideally utilizing a 12-step approach), medications, behavioral therapy, and support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as “problematic alcohol use” that causes notable distress or impairment (such as health, social, or occupational consequences). The condition can be diagnosed with as few as two problematic drinking incidents within 12 months. ^{[1] [2]}

AUD is a progressive condition that can evolve from one or two episodes of dysfunctional alcohol use a year into full-blown addiction. For this reason, the DSM-5 classifies alcohol use disorder as a spectrum (with mild, moderate, or severe cases) based on the number of symptoms met within the diagnostic criteria. ^{[1] [3]}

Alcohol use disorder includes conditions commonly referred to as alcohol abuse, dependence, addiction, and alcoholism. However, these terms are considered outdated after the DSM-5 was revised in 2013 to include alcohol abuse, along with addiction, as part of the alcohol use disorder spectrum. ^{[2] [3]}

This is because terms such as “abuse” and “dependence” tend to imply that alcohol use disorder cannot exist without withdrawal or physical cravings, which is not the case. Additionally, because AUD is a progressive condition and one of the key challenges with addiction is denial, these terms can also be used to justify alcoholism. ^[3]

When Does Drinking Become a Problem?

Although in today's culture, binge drinking (5 or more measured drinks within a few hours for men, and 4 or more for women) is seen as socially acceptable, enjoyable, and even glamorized, the truth is that even one episode of problematic drinking can have irreversible and life-changing consequences. ^{[4] [5]}

Just like tobacco, which was previously viewed in the same light, the substance has recently been declared unsafe at any level of consumption by the World Health Organization (WHO). This contradicts previous views that alcohol is risk-free when consumed in moderation, as well as outdated studies suggesting that moderate levels of wine are good for heart health. ^[4]

Alcohol is, in fact, a highly addictive carcinogen, meaning that strong links have been found between alcohol consumption and the development of seven different types of cancer. The WHO has stated that determining a "safe" level of alcohol consumption would require credible scientific evidence showing that below a specific level, alcohol poses no risk of illness or injury. ^[4]

In addition to the fact that alcohol is classified as a drug, current evidence does not support the existence of a threshold at which alcohol’s cancer-causing effects begin to impact the human body. In other words, the evidence shows that even one drop of alcohol is unsafe, meaning that drinking any amount of alcohol is a problem. ^[4]

Early Warning Signs of Alcohol Addiction

Addiction does not manifest overnight, and often begins with a nightly glass of wine, which over time, evolves into a bottle. This slow progression begins with sabotaging personal “rules” around when or how much to drink, using alcohol as a coping mechanism, questioning one’s relationship with alcohol, an obsession with “moderate drinking,” or normalizing binge drinking.

Sabotaging Your Boundaries

Along the way to severe alcohol use disorder (alcohol addiction), there are a series of personal boundaries or “rules” with drinking that are crossed. For example, if a person has set a limit of one glass of whiskey a night, and it progresses to two, this is an early warning sign of addiction. Likewise, drinking alone or at inappropriate times (like during a work break) are clear red flags - even if only done occasionally.

Using Alcohol as a Crutch

It is common to see a character in a movie go through a traumatic or even mildly stressful event and proclaim loudly, “I need a drink.” However, this line of thought is unhealthy and can lead to an emotional dependence on alcohol. While alcohol may initially offer an escape from challenging situations, it is not a solution, and viewing it as such can lead to addiction.

Questioning One’s Relationship with Alcohol

If you have been contemplating your relationship with any form of alcohol, it indicates some degree of lost control. Those who can drink moderately do not typically question whether their drinking is problematic. The very thought, “Am I a problem drinker?” suggests a mental preoccupation and a possible shift into addiction. ^[6]

Desire to Drink in Moderation

If you suspect you might have a drinking problem, there is a good chance you do. Denial is a common trait in alcohol addiction, often involving beliefs about controlling or moderating drinking (which can still increase the risk of death) despite experiencing a degree of powerlessness. The fact of the matter is, some people can drink moderately, while others cannot. ^[7]

Believing Binge Drinking is Manageable

In light of today’s societal idealization of alcohol, many people binge drink on the weekends or even nightly after work. Unfortunately, holding down a job while drinking excessively after hours

can create a false sense of manageability that can ultimately lead to alcohol addiction and serious consequences. If you cannot stop after one drink, even if your drinking episodes are occasional, this is an early warning sign of addiction.

Denial and Justification

The common factor in each of the above warning signs is denial and justification. For example, if a person justifies drinking as a means to cope with challenging life circumstances, sabotages personal boundaries with alcohol, or denies scientific evidence about the risks of drinking, it is a form of denial and a warning sign of the progression of AUD.

Symptoms of Alcoholism and AUD

As stated in the DSM-5, even two episodes of problematic drinking that cause consequential distress or impairment within one year qualify for a clinical diagnosis of alcohol use disorder. The manual classifies alcohol use disorder as mild (two to three symptoms), moderate (four to five symptoms), and severe (more than six symptoms), including: ^[1]

• Alcohol is consumed in greater amounts or for a longer period of time than intended
• Ongoing desire or unsuccessful attempts to reduce or control alcohol use
• Significant time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from alcohol
• Craving or experiencing a strong urge to drink alcohol
• Repeated alcohol use, which results in dysfunctionality at home, work, or school
• Continuing to drink alcohol despite continuous interpersonal or social problems caused or worsened by alcohol consumption
• Prioritizing drinking over pivotal social, work, or leisure activities (to the point where these are reduced or abandoned)
• Repeated alcohol use in dangerous situations (such as drinking and driving, in dangerous areas, around unsafe people, etc.)
• Persistent alcohol use despite being aware that it is causing or worsening physical or psychological issues
• Developing tolerance and needing to consume increased amounts of alcohol to achieve the same effect that used to be experienced with less alcohol
• Withdrawal (alcohol withdrawal syndrome)

Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome

According to the DSM-5, alcohol withdrawal is diagnosed when two or more of the following symptoms emerge within a few hours to several days after reducing or stopping alcohol use. These symptoms can cause significant distress or disrupt functionality, and can also range from mild to severe in accordance with the level of alcohol use disorder. ^[1]

• Anxiety
• Trembling hands
• Difficulty sleeping
• Nausea or vomiting
• Excessive sweating or a rapid pulse
• Restlessness or agitation
• Seizures
• Temporary hallucinations or illusions involving seeing, feeling, or hearing things that are not real

Diagnosing Alcohol Use Disorder

Healthcare practitioners typically only diagnose alcohol use disorder after being informed by a patient of an issue with alcohol. Thereafter, the provider will initially conduct a physical examination to identify signs of related health conditions that may have been caused by AUD, and then use the DSM-5 criteria to determine the severity of the disorder based on the number of symptoms: ^[1]

• Mild: Two to three symptoms
• Moderate: Four to five symptoms
• Severe: Six or more symptoms

Keep in mind that many individuals with alcohol use disorder (no matter the severity level) tend to hide the issue from doctors, due to stigma and shame surrounding alcoholism. Additionally, opening up to a healthcare provider about struggles with alcohol would mean breaking free of personal denial, which is rare for more severe forms of AUD.

Assessments and Tests

Assessments and tests for alcohol use disorder range from brief screening tools like the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Consumption (AUDIT-C) to comprehensive assessments like the full Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), both developed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT)

The AUDIT assessment for hazardous, harmful, and dependent drinking was created through a project conducted by the WHO. A 2024 study shows that the AUDIT is more effective than other alcohol screening tools, and includes 10 questions, each scored from 0 to 4, with a total possible score ranging from 0 to 40. ^[8]

Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Consumption (AUDIT-C)

The AUDIT-C, comprising the first three questions of the AUDIT, is a valid, efficient screening tool for heavy drinking and potential AUD, particularly in primary care settings. It is more effective than some shorter tools for identifying heavy drinkers, but the full AUDIT is better for detecting alcohol dependence or severe AUD. ^[8]

How Common is Alcohol Addiction?

Approximately 400 million people around the globe live with alcohol use disorder, meaning their drinking leads to distress and harmful consequences. However, this statistic includes mild, moderate, and severe forms of the disorder, with only severe AUD being classified as alcohol addiction or alcoholism. ^[9]

In terms of the prevalence of alcoholism, recent statistics from the World Health Organization estimate that approximately 210 million individuals suffer from severe alcohol use disorder (more than half of those with the condition). Of these, a 2023 national survey found that approximately 1 in 10 Americans above the age of 12 had AUD, including more than 16 million males and 12 million females. ^{[9] [10]}

This statistic reflects the global findings that AUD manifests more commonly in males than in females. Additionally, research shows that worldwide, over one-fifth of all 15 to 19-year-olds fall into the category of clinically diagnosable AUD. The highest prevalence rates were found in Europe, followed closely by the United States. ^{[9] [10]}

Causes

The exact cause of alcohol use disorder is unknown; however, research suggests that AUD is influenced by factors such as how often, how much, and how rapidly an individual drinks alcohol. ^{[2] [10]}

Alcohol misuse (drinking in a way that could harm the individual or those around them) raises the risk of developing AUD over time. This includes behaviors such as binge drinking or heavy alcohol use. ^[2]

Other risk factors for developing alcohol use disorder include: ^{[2] [10] [11] [12] [13]}

• Changes to the brain: Changes in the brain may contribute to the development of AUD, as persistent alcohol use disorder is sustained by stress-circuit activation during withdrawal, driving negative emotional states and relapse. In other words, alcohol abuse rewires the brain to crave alcohol in order to feel normal.

• Socioeconomic influences: Research indicates that, in addition to ongoing harmful alcohol use, certain factors are linked to its occurrence, including being male, single, part of an ethnic minority, having higher education levels, smoking, and experiencing psychological distress.

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• Drinking at a young age: Studies show that people aged 26 and older who started drinking before the age of 15 are more likely to manifest AUD compared to those who began drinking at 21 or older. The risk is higher for females in this category than for males.

• Mental health conditions: Various psychiatric disorders, such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), often coexist with AUD, increasing the risk of developing the disorder, potentially due to attempts to self-medicate.

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• Environmental factors: Research suggests that parental drinking habits, as well as childhood trauma, can also affect the development of AUD. Additionally, individuals living in low-income countries are more at risk of developing the disorder than those in high-income countries, even among healthcare professionals.

Is Alcoholism Genetic?

Studies suggest that approximately half of the risk for developing alcohol use disorder is genetic, with a family history of alcohol use disorder linked to around a 60% increase in the risk of developing AUD. Early genetic research has identified over 10 risk genes and pinpointed two involved in alcohol metabolism, known as ADH1B and ADH1C. ^{[2] [14]}

A 2024 meta-analysis investigating data from several large-scale genetic and health research databases (including the Million Veteran Program) found 29 genetic risk variants for problematic alcohol use, 19 of which were newly discovered. These variants were linked to 66 genes, including those involved in alcohol processing and brain function. ^[14]

Recent research also looked at genetic links across multiple substance use disorders, finding both shared and specific genetic factors, with ADH1B emerging as a key gene associated with problematic drinking. However, as with many chronic health conditions, the risk of AUD is shaped by the interaction between a person's genetics and their environment. ^{[2] [10] [14]}

Risks and Complications

Consuming large quantities of alcohol increases the likelihood of death from car accidents, violence, injuries, and suicide. Additionally, alcohol use disorder is linked to several co-occurring psychiatric conditions. ^{[5] [15]}

Furthermore, drinking during pregnancy is dangerous not only for the pregnant mother but also for the infant’s well-being. For those struggling with AUD, seeking help can be a vital step toward preventing these serious consequences: ^{[5] [15] [16]}

Injuries and Accidents

• Accidental injuries (such as falls and car accidents)
• Injuries from violence or harm

Dangers to Infant Wellness

• Miscarriage
• Stillbirth
• Premature birth
• Learning disabilities
• Memory problems
• Hyperactivity
• Inattentiveness
• Language difficulties
• Challenges with emotional and information processing
• Trouble with movement and coordination
• Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS): Distinct facial features and problems or changes in the brain and spinal cord

Co-Occurring Psychiatric Disorders

• Panic disorder
• Anxiety disorder
• Major depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Dysthymic disorder
• Posttraumatic stress disorder
• Insomnia

Suicidal Thoughts and Attempts

Alcohol use can increase feelings of depression and hopelessness, which are major risk factors for suicide. Alcohol also impairs judgment and lowers inhibitions, making it more likely for someone to act on suicidal thoughts. Additionally, addiction often leads to strained relationships and isolation, which can further increase the risk of suicide.

Suicide Hotlines

Suicide hotlines are private, 24/7 phone services where individuals in crisis can connect with trained professionals for support, guidance, and immediate assistance during difficult times. These hotlines offer resources, referrals, and help with accessing local mental health services.

• American Suicide Hotline: Call 988

• Global Suicide Hotlines: Access a list of suicide hotlines worldwide here. If your country isn’t listed, search “24/7 suicide hotline” to locate a local number.

Alcohol's Impact on Physical Health

Alcohol use, and especially excessive alcohol consumption, can be harmful to physical health. Alcohol raises the risk of certain cancers while also leading to digestive conditions like fatty liver disease and cirrhosis. Additionally, alcohol use can lead to cardiovascular difficulties, immune and breathing difficulties, and may also damage the brain. ^[5][16]

Cancers Linked to AUD

• Mouth
• Throat
• Esophagus
• Stomach
• Breast
• Colon
• Liver
• Pancreatic

Digestive System Difficulties

• Poor nutrition
• Acid reflux
• Stomach inflammation (gastritis)
• Tears in the stomach lining
• Slow digestion (delayed gastric emptying)
• Liver disease (fatty liver and cirrhosis)
• Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
• Trouble with pancreatic function (pancreatic insufficiency)
• Bleeding in the upper digestive system
• Trouble absorbing nutrients (malabsorption)

Heart and Stroke Issues

• Stroke
• Heart disease
• Irregular heartbeat
• Weakened heart muscle
• High blood pressure

Immune and Breathing Problems

• Weak immune system
• Sleep apnea (breathing problems during sleep)
• Breathing in food or liquid
• Lung infections (pneumonia)
• Sexually transmitted infections

Brain-Related Health Conditions

• Brain disorders
• Nerve damage
• Memory problems (dementia)
• Low thyroid function (hypothyroidism)
• Bone weakness (osteoporosis)
• Blood problems (anemia and low platelets)

Prevention of Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol use disorder is recognized as a brain disorder that can range from mild to severe. In moderate or severe cases, repeated alcohol misuse leads to lasting brain changes that ultimately cause cravings, which sustain the disorder and increase the risk of relapse. In light of this, the best way to prevent AUD is to avoid regularly drinking in excess. ^[2]

Over time, drinking in excess repeatedly rewires the brain’s reward and survival mechanisms to seek out alcohol just to feel stable. If an individual is unable to drink in moderation (stop after one for women, or two for men), the best direction would be to avoid alcohol entirely, as binge drinking is often a stepping stone on the road to severe alcohol use disorder.

The first step in preventing the onset of AUD is to break free of denial regarding one’s unhealthy drinking habits. For those with mild or moderate AUD, there is a good chance of preventing full-blown alcohol addiction by choosing abstinence.

When to Seek Help

If you are concerned that you might be losing control over your ability to drink moderately, or if your alcohol use is causing unmanageability at work and home, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor. You can also reach out to a mental health professional or connect with a support group like Alcoholics Anonymous to talk with an individual in recovery from alcohol use disorder.

Denial is common, and it can be difficult to accept the extent of a drinking problem or how it is affecting one’s life. However, acceptance is the precursor to change, so endeavor to pay close attention to those who express concern about your drinking habits. Additionally, keep in mind that one of the early warning signs of severe AUD is questioning one’s relationship with alcohol.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment Approaches

Many individuals with alcohol use disorder do recover, though relapses are common, and maintaining sobriety requires lifelong vigilance. Depending on the level of AUD severity, people can seek treatment in the form of medically supervised detoxification, rehabilitation, medication, support groups, or therapy. ^[2]

Clinical Detoxification

For those with severe AUD, medical detoxification may be necessary to safely manage alcohol withdrawal, as withdrawal can be dangerous or even life-threatening (causing seizures, delirium tremens, heart attacks, and more). For this reason, those with severe AUD can book into a medical detox facility where doctors can monitor the individual and prescribe medications to make the process safer. ^[2]

Rehabilitation Centres

In the throes of severe alcohol use disorder, it is highly beneficial to seek treatment at a 12-step rehabilitation centre. These facilities provide a safe space without access to alcohol, and are equipped to manage the detoxification process as well as any co-occurring psychiatric conditions.

Ongoing meeting attendance is strongly recommended by 12-step treatment facilities in order to receive lifelong support. If an individual has never been exposed to AA before, this type of rehabilitation centre can smooth the transition into alcohol addiction recovery by teaching individuals about the Alcoholics Anonymous program before reintegrating with society.

Medication

Medications are often prescribed and administered in rehabilitation centres to ease the withdrawal process, although not all individuals with AUD will require extreme interventions. According to a 2024 study, pharmaceuticals can also help to reduce the risk of relapse during stressful periods, such as a divorce or the loss of a loved one. ^[2]

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved three nonaddictive medications for reducing or stopping alcohol use. These medications can be used alone or alongside behavioral therapies and support groups, and other options like gabapentin and topiramate may also be prescribed. The three FDA-approved medications include: ^{[2] [3]}

• Naltrexone (available as a pill or long-acting injection)
• Acamprosate
• Disulfiram

Support Groups

Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous offer peer relatability, guidance, and encouragement for those seeking to stop or reduce drinking, with meetings available at no cost in most communities and online. ^[2]

This accessibility makes them particularly useful for people at risk of relapse. When combined with medications and professional behavioral treatment, these support groups can provide an important additional source of strength. ^[2]

Alcoholics Anonymous is an inclusive fellowship that welcomes people with all levels of alcohol use disorder severity. In AA, individuals are encouraged to find a sponsor (mentor) who offers guidance both during high-risk moments and general day-to-day challenges.

Behavioral Therapy

Research shows that behavioral therapies teach people skills to manage triggers like stress that could lead to drinking. These treatments, also known as alcohol counseling or talk therapy, are provided by licensed therapists and focus on changing drinking behavior. Examples include brief interventions, motivational approaches, coping skills training, and mindfulness-based therapies. ^[2]

Home Management for Early AUD Recovery

Early recovery from AUD requires intentional changes in daily habits to prevent relapse. Implementing supportive strategies at home, such as attending regular meetings, avoiding alcohol-heavy environments, and finding satisfying non-alcoholic alternatives, can strengthen a person’s commitment to sobriety.

90 Meetings in 90 Days

The first year of alcohol use disorder recovery is considered to be a high-risk period for relapse. For this reason, it is recommended by the Alcoholics Anonymous program to attend 90 meetings in 90 days, either after leaving treatment or joining the fellowship. This additional support can help recovering alcoholics stay on track.

Avoid Pro-Alcohol Environments

Entertaining ideas of spending time in bars or other pro-alcohol environments to connect with friends has caused many people with AUD to relapse. While it is not impossible to frequent events and situations where there will be alcohol, it is advisable to either take a friend who is in recovery with you or to wait until you have been sober for longer than a year.

Refrain from Keeping Alcohol in the House

When individuals with AUD first realize that they have a problem, it is common to attempt to reduce alcohol intake through ideas of moderation. However, it is only by accepting the fact that one is susceptible to addiction that one can move forward. It is unwise to keep alcohol in the home or at your workplace, due to the mental obsession caused by moderate or severe AUD.

Find a Non-Alcoholic Drink You Enjoy

You don’t have to stop drinking; you just need to stop drinking alcohol. Health drinks with spices such as cayenne pepper can help to manage cravings, as can caffeinated or sugary beverages. Don’t be afraid to substitute alcohol with another non-alcoholic drink in early recovery. If it is unhealthy, it is likely still better for you than alcohol, and you can find healthier alternatives later on.

Maintain Vigilance in Case of Cross-Addiction

When reducing or stopping alcohol use, it is important to stay aware of the risk of substituting one addictive behavior for another, which is known as cross-addiction. This can involve turning to substances like drugs, nicotine, or even behaviors like gambling, overeating, or online shopping to cope with stress or cravings.

Connection is the Opposite of Addiction

Connecting with loved ones or forging new friendships among the Alcoholics Anonymous fellowship can be a powerful tool in overcoming addiction. Relationships offer a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation that can lead to a relapse. Additionally, socializing sober can offer unexpected joy, relaxation, and a healthy distraction.

Long-Term Recovery Maintenance with Alcoholics Anonymous

Long-term recovery from AUD requires consistent engagement with supportive practices, such as those offered by Alcoholics Anonymous. Regular meeting attendance, sponsor guidance, fellowship events, and nightly self-reflection can help individuals maintain sobriety and navigate ongoing challenges. These tools provide structure, accountability, and connection, all essential components for sustained recovery.

Regular Meeting Attendance

Attending meetings consistently helps to combat denial and provides ongoing support from others who understand the challenges of addiction. Regular participation builds accountability, reduces isolation, and creates a structured routine that can decrease the risk of relapse. Meetings also provide a safe space to share experiences and gain new insights for maintaining sobriety.

Sponsor Support and Guidance

A sponsor serves as a trusted mentor who has successfully navigated recovery and can offer guidance during difficult times. Sponsors provide personalized support, helping recovering alcoholics to work through dysfunctional thinking patterns and maintain focus on sobriety. Regular check-ins with a sponsor can be a vital source of encouragement and accountability.

Fellowship Events

Fellowship events provide opportunities to connect with other recovering alcoholics in a relaxed, social setting. These gatherings can help to reduce the sense of shame and stigma that often comes with alcohol use disorder. Engaging in fun, substance-free activities inspires and reinforces the idea that a fulfilling life is possible without the use of alcohol.

Nightly Inventory

Taking a nightly inventory involves reflecting on the day’s actions, thoughts, and feelings to assess progress in recovery. This practice can help identify potential triggers or areas of concern that need attention. Reviewing daily behavior promotes self-awareness and fosters personal growth in maintaining sobriety.

Final Thoughts

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a complex condition with a spectrum of severity levels that can have profound negative impacts on an individual's life and health. The diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5 emphasize a spectrum of severity, moving away from outdated terms like "alcoholism" to recognize the progressive nature of this condition.

Early identification of warning signs, such as sabotaging personal boundaries and using alcohol as a coping mechanism, is crucial for timely intervention and prevention of severe AUD. Effective management of AUD necessitates a multifaceted approach, tailored to the individual's specific needs and the severity of their condition.

Treatment options range from medically supervised detoxification and rehabilitation programs to the utilization of FDA-approved medications that can aid in reducing cravings and preventing relapse. Furthermore, the invaluable support offered by groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and the guidance of behavioral therapies play a critical role in maintaining long-term sobriety.

Sustaining recovery from alcohol use disorder is an ongoing process that demands continuous vigilance and commitment to a sober lifestyle. Ultimately, recognizing the chronic nature of alcohol use disorder and embracing a comprehensive support system can help individuals to manage the condition and live a fulfilling life.

Author

Star Gorven

Star Gorven is a wellness and mental health writer with a talent for crafting evocative and evidence-based content across a wide range of topics. Her work blends analytical research with imagination and personality, offering thoughtful insights drawn from her exploration of subjects such as psychology, philosophy, spirituality, and holistic wellbeing.

Activity History - Last updated: March 19, 2026, Published date: March 19, 2026

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Reviewer

Jennifer Brown

Dr. Jennifer Brown is dual board-certified in family medicine and obesity medicine. She currently works for Amwell Medical Group, providing virtual primary care services, including mental health treatment.

Activity History - Medically reviewed on April 7, 2026 and last checked on March 19, 2026