Alcohol is an addictive substance that contributes to millions of deaths and disabilities worldwide [1]. Excessive alcohol use accounts for 5.1 % of the global disease burden and is the primary risk factor for premature mortality and disability in people aged 15 years to 49 years, and accounts for 10 % of all deaths in this age group [1]. Vulnerable societies have higher rates of alcohol-related fatalities and hospitalizations [1]. Despite the serious global disease burden, only a minority of individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) receive pharmacotherapy due to concerns over their efficacy and the risk of clinically significant or severe adverse events [2-4].
