Abstinenznachweis

Alcoholism is a chronic condition requiring treatment in which alcohol loses its role as something consumed for enjoyment and becomes the centre of life. Typical features include loss of control, physical dependence and noticeable harm across many areas of life.…

Alcoholism often develops gradually and goes unnoticed for a long time. Relatives and friends may sense that “something is wrong” but struggle to interpret the behaviour. People affected may hide their addiction by finding reasons for drinking or drinking in…

Alcohol consumption can be detected through urine and hair analysis. Breakdown products such as ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEEs) play a central role. Depending on the amount consumed and drinking patterns, these markers can be detected…

Hashish is cannabis resin pressed into slabs and contains a particularly high proportion of THC, the substance responsible for its intoxicating effects. Compared with marijuana, hash is more concentrated and potent. Quality varies considerably depending on production methods, origin and…

When alcohol and Germany’s medical-psychological driving assessment (MPU) are involved, the central question is often whether controlled drinking is sufficient or abstinence is required. An assessor requires abstinence when there are signs of alcohol dependence or the incident is considered…

Controlled drinking sounds like a “middle way”: less alcohol, more control and no need to give it up completely. Yet many people struggle with the internal change it requires. Someone who previously drank for intoxication must learn to treat alcohol…

Diagnosing alcohol dependence under ICD-10 follows defined medical standards. It is based on six criteria covering physical, psychological and social aspects. When at least three features have occurred together within twelve months, diagnosis F10.2 is assigned. The process helps assess…

Under the new MPU assessment criteria (4th edition, BK 4), the changes to controlled drinking have been less “revolutionary” than many rumours suggest. Nevertheless, their effect is noticeable. The requirements are now described more clearly and are therefore often stricter…

Dyeing, bleaching or straightening your hair can seriously jeopardise proof of abstinence obtained through hair analysis. Many people underestimate the fact that chemical treatments change the structure of the hair and can therefore affect laboratory results. Modern laboratories examine hair…

Anyone in Munich who needs proof of abstinence suitable for an MPU often looks for “the cheapest provider”. Yet this is the most common misconception. No provider can responsibly be named as unequivocally “the cheapest”, because laboratories do not publish…