METHODS	Six hundred and four patients ( placebo = 298 ; nalmefene = 306 ) ,18 years of age , with a diagnosis of alcohol dependence ,6 heavy drinking days , and average alcohol consumptionWorld Health Organization medium drinking risk level in the 4 weeks preceding screening , were randomized ( 1:1 ) to 24 weeks of as-needed placebo or nalmefene 18 mg .\