Among patients consulting in 4 alcohol treatment centers in France seeking treatment for withdrawal, we included those who met criteria for current alcohol-dependence (DSM IV) and having drinking during the past three days before randomization. Exclusion criteria were: patients' refusal of one or other method, contraindication for outpatient detoxification method (history of DELIRIUM TREMENS or withdrawal seizures), homelessness, Major Depressive Episode assessed by MADRS > 25, current Substance Abuse Disorder (except nicotine), indication for hospitalization (severe somatic disorder), judicial injunction, family crisis, patients seeking antabuse treatment.