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Treating Alcohol Dependency

Harmful drinking and mild alcohol dependence

If psychological treatment on its own does not help, medication may be added. These can include:1

  • Acamprosate
  • Naltrexone
  • Disulfiram

Acute alcohol withdrawal

For acute alcohol withdrawal, offer benzodiazepine or carbamazepine.1

Clomethiazole may be offered as an alternative to benzodiazepine or carbamazepine. However, it should be used with caution, in inpatient settings only.1

Delirium tremens

For delirium tremens, offer oral lorazepam as first-line treatment.1

If symptoms persist or oral medication is declined, offer parenteral lorazepam or haloperidol.1

Alcohol withdrawal seizures

For alcohol withdrawal seizures, offer a quick-acting benzodiazepine.

A quick-acting benzodiazepine such as lorazepam will reduce the likelihood of further seizures.1

Contents

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  • References

    1. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Full Guidance June 2010. (Updated April 2017). Alcohol use disorders and clinical management of alcohol-related physical complications [Clinical Guidance 100].

    KKI/GB/PAB/0276 November 2023