EXCLUSIVE

12:29 PM PT -- Verne's team just posted a message on his Instagram, saying, "Asking you to keep Verne in your thoughts and prayers. He’s getting the best care possible and is resting comfortably. Appreciate the support from family, friends, and fans around the world."

Police rushed to Verne Troyer's home Monday night after getting a report the 'Austin Powers' star was suicidal ... TMZ has learned.

Law enforcement sources tell us a friend of Verne's made the call around 7:30 PM, and described him as being extremely upset, drunk and suicidal. We're told cops and fire department paramedics responded, and Verne was transported to a hospital for possible alcohol poisoning.

We're told he's being held for 72 hours for evaluation.

Verne's been battling alcoholism -- and it was almost exactly a year ago when he was admitted to a hospital for it. He later checked into a rehab treatment program.