Gut microbiota and alcohol use disorder: a new frontier in treatment and recovery.

Abstract

Aims and method: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a major global health concern associated with limited treatment efficacy and high relapse rates. Recent research highlights the gut microbiota as a critical modulator of AUD pathophysiology through its influence on the gut-brain axis. Chronic alcohol consumption induces gut dysbiosis, characterised by reduced microbial diversity, impaired gut barrier function and systemic inflammation, which perpetuate neuroinflammation, stress dysregulation and neurotransmitter imbalances. These disruptions exacerbate addiction-related behaviours, contributing to the cycle of dependence and relapse. This critical review synthesises current evidence on the role of gut microbiota in AUD, examining the mechanisms linking dysbiosis to addiction and evaluating therapeutic interventions such as probiotics, prebiotics, faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), psychobiotics and dietary modifications.

Results: The strategies evaluated show significant potential in restoring microbial homeostasis and improving AUD outcomes, but challenges remain, including gaps in mechanistic understanding, variability in methodologies, and barriers to clinical translation.

Clinical implications: There is a need for multi-omics research, personalised medicine approaches and integrated treatment models to advance microbiota-based therapies. Gut microbiota-targeted strategies might then transform AUD management, offering innovative and personalised solutions for addiction recovery.