Alcohol withdrawal overview: Difference between revisions

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{{CMG}}; {{AE}} {{SHA}} {{ADI}}
{{CMG}}; {{AE}} {{SHA}} {{ADI}}
== Overview ==
Alcohol withdrawal refers to symptoms that can occur when a person who has been drinking [[alcohol]] every day suddenly stops drinking alcohol.


==Overview==
==Overview==
[[Alcohol]] withdrawal occurs with sudden discontinuation of [[alcohol]] intake after consumption of large quantities of [[alcohol]] for more than two weeks. The incidence of [[alcohol]] dependence is approximately 8 million individuals, annually, in the United States, and about 50% of them experience [[alcohol]] withdrawal symptoms with decreased or discontinuation of [[alcohol]] consumption. Common [[symptoms]] of [[alcohol]] withdrawal may include loss of [[appetite]], [[nausea, vomiting]], [[agitation]], [[anxiety]], [[irritability]], [[insomnia]], [[headache]], [[diaphoresis]], [[tremor]], and the most severe symptoms in alcohol withdrawal include [[hallucinosis]], [[seizures]], and [[delirium tremens|delirium tremens (DT)]]. [[Symptoms]] of [[alcohol]] withdrawal usually resolve within seven days of [[alcohol]] intake discontinuation. Most patients with [[alcohol]] withdrawal have mild [[symptoms]] and may be treated with [[outpatient]] management. 5% of patients with [[alcohol]] withdrawal will present with severe [[alcohol]] withdrawal characteristics including [[seizures]] and [[Delirium tremens|delirium tremens (DT)]]. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ([[DSM-5]]) criteria is used to diagnose [[alcohol]] withdrawal. The Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol (CIWA-A) scale is used to assess the severity of [[alcohol]] withdrawal. [[Benzodiazepines]] are currently the [[gold standard]] treatment of [[alcohol]] withdrawal such as [[diazepam]], [[chlordiazepoxide]], [[lorazepam]], and [[oxazepam]]. Other drugs that may be used are [[phenobarbital]], [[propofol]], and [[dexmedetomidine]]. [[Thiamine]] is usually administered for prevention of [[Wernicke encephalopathy]] (prior to [[glucose]] administration).


==Historical Perspective==
==Historical Perspective==
The term '[[alcoholism]]' was first used in medical texts by Magnus Huss in 1894.<ref name="pmid3338683">{{cite journal| author=Lesch OM, Dietzel M, Musalek M, Walter H, Zeiler K| title=The course of alcoholism. Long-term prognosis in different types. | journal=Forensic Sci Int | year= 1988 | volume= 36 | issue= 1-2 | pages= 121-38 | pmid=3338683 | doi=10.1016/0379-0738(88)90225-3 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=3338683  }} </ref>


==Classification==
==Classification==
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==Differentiating Alcohol Withdrawal from Other Diseases==
==Differentiating Alcohol Withdrawal from Other Diseases==
Alcohol withdrawal must also be differentiated from other diseases that cause [[seizures]], [[personality changes]], altered level of [[consciousness]] and hand [[tremors]] ([[asterixis]]). The differentials include the following:<nowiki/><ref name="pmid20495225">{{cite journal| author=Meparidze MM, Kodua TE, Lashkhi KS| title=[Speech impairment predisposes to cognitive deterioration in hepatic encephalopathy]. | journal=Georgian Med News | year= 2010 | volume=  | issue= 181 | pages= 43-9 | pmid=20495225 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=20495225  }} </ref><ref name="pmid25013309">{{cite journal| author=Kattimani S, Bharadwaj B| title=Clinical management of alcohol withdrawal: A systematic review. | journal=Ind Psychiatry J | year= 2013 | volume= 22 | issue= 2 | pages= 100-8 | pmid=25013309 | doi=10.4103/0972-6748.132914 | pmc=4085800 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25013309  }} </ref><ref name="pmid12813481">{{cite journal| author=Roldán J, Frauca C, Dueñas A| title=[Alcohol intoxication]. | journal=An Sist Sanit Navar | year= 2003 | volume= 26 Suppl 1 | issue=  | pages= 129-39 | pmid=12813481 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=12813481  }} </ref><ref name="pmid21590619">{{cite journal| author=Seifter JL, Samuels MA| title=Uremic encephalopathy and other brain disorders associated with renal failure. | journal=Semin Neurol | year= 2011 | volume= 31 | issue= 2 | pages= 139-43 | pmid=21590619 | doi=10.1055/s-0031-1277984 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=21590619  }} </ref><ref name="pmid6864698">{{cite journal| author=Handler CE, Perkin GD| title=Wernicke's encephalopathy. | journal=J R Soc Med | year= 1983 | volume= 76 | issue= 5 | pages= 339-42 | pmid=6864698 | doi= | pmc=1439130 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=6864698  }} </ref><ref name="pmid23251840">{{cite journal| author=Kim Y, Kim JW| title=Toxic encephalopathy. | journal=Saf Health Work | year= 2012 | volume= 3 | issue= 4 | pages= 243-56 | pmid=23251840 | doi=10.5491/SHAW.2012.3.4.243 | pmc=3521923 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23251840  }} </ref><ref name="pmid2497395">{{cite journal| author=Hartmann A, Buttinger C, Rommel T, Czernicki Z, Trtinjiak F| title=Alteration of intracranial pressure, cerebral blood flow, autoregulation and carbondioxide-reactivity by hypotensive agents in baboons with intracranial hypertension. | journal=Neurochirurgia (Stuttg) | year= 1989 | volume= 32 | issue= 2 | pages= 37-43 | pmid=2497395 | doi=10.1055/s-2008-1053998 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=2497395  }} </ref><ref name="pmid21590622">{{cite journal| author=Kumar N| title=Acute and subacute encephalopathies: deficiency states (nutritional). | journal=Semin Neurol | year= 2011 | volume= 31 | issue= 2 | pages= 169-83 | pmid=21590622 | doi=10.1055/s-0031-1277986 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=21590622  }} </ref><ref name="pmid23035103">{{cite journal| author=Chiu GS, Chatterjee D, Darmody PT, Walsh JP, Meling DD, Johnson RW et al.| title=Hypoxia/reoxygenation impairs memory formation via adenosine-dependent activation of caspase 1. | journal=J Neurosci | year= 2012 | volume= 32 | issue= 40 | pages= 13945-55 | pmid=23035103 | doi=10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0704-12.2012 | pmc=3476834 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23035103  }} </ref><ref name="pmid15284663">{{cite journal| author=Peate I| title=An overview of meningitis: signs, symptoms, treatment and support. | journal=Br J Nurs | year= 2004 | volume= 13 | issue= 13 | pages= 796-801 | pmid=15284663 | doi=10.12968/bjon.2004.13.13.13501 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=15284663  }} </ref><ref name="pmid25821643">{{cite journal| author=Abdelhafiz AH, Rodríguez-Mañas L, Morley JE, Sinclair AJ| title=Hypoglycemia in older people - a less well recognized risk factor for frailty. | journal=Aging Dis | year= 2015 | volume= 6 | issue= 2 | pages= 156-67 | pmid=25821643 | doi=10.14336/AD.2014.0330 | pmc=4365959 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25821643  }} </ref><ref name="DSMV">{{cite book | title = Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5 | publisher = American Psychiatric Association | location = Washington, D.C | year = 2013 | isbn = 0890425558 }}</ref>
[[Alcohol]] withdrawal must also be differentiated from other diseases including:<ref name=DSMV>{{cite book | title = Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5 | publisher = American Psychiatric Association | location = Washington, D.C | year = 2013 | isbn = 0890425558 }}</ref>
 
* [[Diabetic ketoacidosis]]
* [[Hepatic encephalopathy]]
* [[Essential tremor]]
* [[Alcohol intoxication]]
* [[Uremia]]
* [[Wernicke encephalopathy]]
* [[Toxic encephalopathy]] from drugs
* Altered [[intracranial pressure]]
* Intoxication by chemical agents
* [[Malnutrition]]
* [[Hypoxic brain injury]]
* [[Meningitis]] and [[encephalitis]]
* [[Hypoglycemia]]
* [[Hypoglycemia]]
* [[Diabetic ketoacidosis]]
* [[Hypoglycemia]]
* [[Sedative]], [[hypnotic]], or [[anxiolytic]] withdrawal
* [[Sedative]], [[hypnotic]], or [[anxiolytic]] withdrawal


==Epidemiology and Demographics==
==Epidemiology and Demographics==
* The incidence of [[alcohol]] dependence is approximately 8 million individuals, annually, in the United States, and about 50% of them experience [[alcohol]] withdrawal symptoms with decreased or discontinuation of [[alcohol]] consumption.<ref name="pmid19168210">{{cite journal| author=Schuckit MA| title=Alcohol-use disorders. | journal=Lancet | year= 2009 | volume= 373 | issue= 9662 | pages= 492-501 | pmid=19168210 | doi=10.1016/S0140-6736(09)60009-X | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=19168210  }} </ref><ref name=DSMV>{{cite book | title = Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5 | publisher = American Psychiatric Association | location = Washington, D.C | year = 2013 | isbn = 0890425558 }}</ref>
* The prevalence of [[alcohol]] withdrawal is approximately 50% of middle-class individuals with [[alcohol use disorder]].
* The prevalence of [[alcohol]] withdrawal is approximately 80% of hospitalized or homeless individuals with [[alcohol use disorder]].<ref name=DSMV>{{cite book | title = Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5 | publisher = American Psychiatric Association | location = Washington, D.C | year = 2013 | isbn = 0890425558 }}</ref>
* 5% of patients with [[alcohol]] withdrawal will present with severe [[alcohol]] withdrawal symptoms including [[seizures]] and [[Delirium tremens|delirium tremens (DT)]].<ref name="pmid25427113">{{cite journal| author=Schuckit MA| title=Recognition and management of withdrawal delirium (delirium tremens). | journal=N Engl J Med | year= 2014 | volume= 371 | issue= 22 | pages= 2109-13 | pmid=25427113 | doi=10.1056/NEJMra1407298 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25427113  }} </ref> 5% of patients with [[alcohol]] withdrawal and [[Delirium tremens|delirium tremens (DT)]] die from various [[complications]] such as [[cardiovascular]], [[metabolic]], [[infections]], and [[trauma]].<ref name="pmid13134661">{{cite journal| author=VICTOR M, ADAMS RD| title=The effect of alcohol on the nervous system. | journal=Res Publ Assoc Res Nerv Ment Dis | year= 1953 | volume= 32 | issue=  | pages= 526-73 | pmid=13134661 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=13134661  }} </ref><ref name="pmid5858249">{{cite journal| author=Cutshall BJ| title=The Saunderssutton syndrome: an analysis of delirium tremens. | journal=Q J Stud Alcohol | year= 1965 | volume= 26 | issue= 3 | pages= 423-48 | pmid=5858249 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=5858249  }} </ref>
* [[Alcohol]] withdrawal is rare in patients <30 years old, and the severity increases with more age.<ref name=DSMV>{{cite book | title = Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5 | publisher = American Psychiatric Association | location = Washington, D.C | year = 2013 | isbn = 0890425558 }}</ref>
* It is estimated that about 20% of men and 10% of women have [[alcohol use disorder]], and in about half of them [[alcohol]] withdrawal symptoms will be observed with a decrease in [[alcohol]] intake.<ref name="pmid19168210">{{cite journal| author=Schuckit MA| title=Alcohol-use disorders. | journal=Lancet | year= 2009 | volume= 373 | issue= 9662 | pages= 492-501 | pmid=19168210 | doi=10.1016/S0140-6736(09)60009-X | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=19168210  }} </ref><ref name=DSMV>{{cite book | title = Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5 | publisher = American Psychiatric Association | location = Washington, D.C | year = 2013 | isbn = 0890425558 }}</ref>


==Risk Factors==
==Risk Factors==
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==Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis==
==Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis==
 
* [[Symptoms]] of [[alcohol]] withdrawal usually resolve within seven days of [[alcohol]] intake discontinuation.<ref name="pmid24364635">{{cite journal| author=Muncie HL, Yasinian Y, Oge' L| title=Outpatient management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. | journal=Am Fam Physician | year= 2013 | volume= 88 | issue= 9 | pages= 589-95 | pmid=24364635 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=24364635  }} </ref>
* Most patients with [[alcohol]] withdrawal have mild [[symptoms]] and may be treated with [[outpatient]] management.<ref name="pmid25427113">{{cite journal| author=Schuckit MA| title=Recognition and management of withdrawal delirium (delirium tremens). | journal=N Engl J Med | year= 2014 | volume= 371 | issue= 22 | pages= 2109-13 | pmid=25427113 | doi=10.1056/NEJMra1407298 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25427113  }} </ref>
* 5% of patients with [[alcohol]] withdrawal will present with severe [[alcohol]] withdrawal characteristics including [[seizures]] and [[Delirium tremens|delirium tremens (DT)]].<ref name="pmid25427113">{{cite journal| author=Schuckit MA| title=Recognition and management of withdrawal delirium (delirium tremens). | journal=N Engl J Med | year= 2014 | volume= 371 | issue= 22 | pages= 2109-13 | pmid=25427113 | doi=10.1056/NEJMra1407298 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25427113  }} </ref>
* 5% of patients with [[alcohol]] withdrawal and [[Delirium tremens|delirium tremens (DT)]] die from [[complications]] such as [[cardiovascular]], [[metabolic]], [[infections]], and [[trauma]].<ref name="pmid13134661">{{cite journal| author=VICTOR M, ADAMS RD| title=The effect of alcohol on the nervous system. | journal=Res Publ Assoc Res Nerv Ment Dis | year= 1953 | volume= 32 | issue=  | pages= 526-73 | pmid=13134661 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=13134661  }} </ref><ref name="pmid5858249">{{cite journal| author=Cutshall BJ| title=The Saunderssutton syndrome: an analysis of delirium tremens. | journal=Q J Stud Alcohol | year= 1965 | volume= 26 | issue= 3 | pages= 423-48 | pmid=5858249 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=5858249  }} </ref>


==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
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* [[Nausea, vomiting]]
* [[Nausea, vomiting]]
* [[Tremors]]
* [[Tremors]]
* [[Autonomic]] hyperactivity:
* [[Autonomic]] hyperactivity ([[tachycardia]], [[hypertension]], and [[hyperthermia]])
** [[Tachycardia]]
* [[Hallucinations]] ([[auditory]], [[visual]], [[tactile]], [[gustatory]], and [[olfactory]])
** [[Hypertension]]
** [[Hyperthermia]]
* [[Hallucinations]]:
** [[Auditory]]
** [[Visual]]
** [[Tactile]]
** [[Gustatory]]
** [[Olfactory]]
* [[Delusions]]
* [[Delusions]]
* [[Confusion]]
* [[Confusion]]
Line 143: Line 131:


===Other Diagnostic Studies===
===Other Diagnostic Studies===
* There are no other [[diagnostic studies]] associated with [[alcohol]] withdrawal.
* However, studies with [[neurochemical]] brain [[imaging]] [with magnetic resonance spectrometry (MRS), positron emission tomography (PET), and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)] have shown the [[neurochemical]] ([[GABA]], [[glutamate]], and [[dopamine]]) effects during [[alcohol]] dependence and withdrawal such as:<ref name="pmid26510169">{{cite journal| author=Hillmer AT, Mason GF, Fucito LM, O'Malley SS, Cosgrove KP| title=How Imaging Glutamate, γ-Aminobutyric Acid, and Dopamine Can Inform the Clinical Treatment of Alcohol Dependence and Withdrawal. | journal=Alcohol Clin Exp Res | year= 2015 | volume= 39 | issue= 12 | pages= 2268-82 | pmid=26510169 | doi=10.1111/acer.12893 | pmc=4712074 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=26510169  }} </ref>
** [[Downregulation]] of [[dopamine]] D2/D3 receptor
** Higher [[glutamate]] levels during acute [[alcohol]] withdrawal followed by fluctuating concentrations
** Potential detrimental effects on the [[GABA]] system by [[smoking]]


==Treatment==
==Treatment==
===Medical Therapy===
===Medical Therapy===
 
The medical management of [[alcohol]] withdrawal includes:<ref name="pmid26861990">{{cite journal| author=Schmidt KJ, Doshi MR, Holzhausen JM, Natavio A, Cadiz M, Winegardner JE| title=Treatment of Severe Alcohol Withdrawal. | journal=Ann Pharmacother | year= 2016 | volume= 50 | issue= 5 | pages= 389-401 | pmid=26861990 | doi=10.1177/1060028016629161 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=26861990  }} </ref><ref name="pmid25666543">{{cite journal| author=Mirijello A, D'Angelo C, Ferrulli A, Vassallo G, Antonelli M, Caputo F | display-authors=etal| title=Identification and management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. | journal=Drugs | year= 2015 | volume= 75 | issue= 4 | pages= 353-65 | pmid=25666543 | doi=10.1007/s40265-015-0358-1 | pmc=4978420 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25666543  }} </ref>
=== Interventions ===
* [[Supportive]] and nonpharmacological therapy:
** [[Airway]] protection
** Monitoring of [[vital signs]]
** Assessment of adequate [[hydration]]
* [[Vitamin]] and [[electrolyte]] replacement:
** [[Thiamine]] for prevention of [[Wernicke encephalopathy]] (prior to [[glucose]] administration)
** [[Folate]] supplementation
** [[Electrolyte]] imbalances may be seen in [[alcohol]] withdrawal due to inadequate [[nutrition]] and [[hydration]]:
*** [[Hypokalemia]] (may be corrected with [[potassium]] supplementation)
*** [[Hypomagnesemia]] (routine supplementation of [[magnesium]] is not recommended)
*** [[Hypophosphatemia]] (in [[asymptomatic]] and  moderate [[hypophosphatemia]], correction with proper [[nutrition]] is preferred)
* [[Benzodiazepines]] (currently the [[gold standard]] treatment of [[alcohol]] withdrawal): [[diazepam]], [[chlordiazepoxide]], [[lorazepam]], and [[oxazepam]]
* [[Phenobarbital]]
* [[Propofol]] (an [[agonist]] at the [[GABA-A]] receptor)
* [[Dexmedetomidine]] ([[α-2 adrenergic receptor agonist]])


===Surgery===
===Surgery===
[[Surgical]] intervention is not recommended for the management of [[alcohol]] withdrawal.


===Primary Prevention===
===Primary Prevention===
Refraining from sudden and abrupt discontinuation of [[alcohol]] intake in individuals with [[alcohol]] dependence may be considered in the [[primary prevention]] of [[alcohol]] withdrawal.


===Secondary Prevention===
===Secondary Prevention===
Long-term [[abstinence]] may be considered in the [[secondary prevention]] of [[alcohol]] withdrawal. [[Abstinence]] requires enrollment in long-term treatment programs in order to reduce the risk of relapse, such as:<ref name="pmid15712624">{{cite journal| author=Blondell RD| title=Ambulatory detoxification of patients with alcohol dependence. | journal=Am Fam Physician | year= 2005 | volume= 71 | issue= 3 | pages= 495-502 | pmid=15712624 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=15712624  }} </ref><ref name="pmid24364635">{{cite journal| author=Muncie HL, Yasinian Y, Oge' L| title=Outpatient management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. | journal=Am Fam Physician | year= 2013 | volume= 88 | issue= 9 | pages= 589-95 | pmid=24364635 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=24364635  }} </ref>
* Group meetings
* [[Counseling]]
* [[Medications]]
===Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy===
* Outpatient detoxification and treatment are more cost-effective in patients with mid-to-moderate alcohol withdrawal symptoms. <ref name="pmid2913493">{{cite journal |author=Hayashida M, Alterman AI, McLellan AT, O'Brien CP, Purtill JJ, Volpicelli JR, Raphaelson AH, Hall CP |title=Comparative effectiveness and costs of inpatient and outpatient detoxification of patients with mild-to-moderate alcohol withdrawal syndrome |journal=[[The New England Journal of Medicine]] |volume=320 |issue=6 |pages=358–65 |year=1989 |month=February |pmid=2913493 |doi=10.1056/NEJM198902093200605 |url=http://www.nejm.org/doi/abs/10.1056/NEJM198902093200605?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%3dpubmed |accessdate=2012-08-16}}</ref>
* Outpatient treatment costs are about $175 to $388 per patient.
* Inpatient treatment costs are about $3,319 to $3,665 per patient.
===Future or Investigational Therapies===
Further studies are required for:<ref name="pmid15706727">{{cite journal| author=Saitz R| title=Introduction to alcohol withdrawal. | journal=Alcohol Health Res World | year= 1998 | volume= 22 | issue= 1 | pages= 5-12 | pmid=15706727 | doi= | pmc=6761824 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=15706727  }} </ref><ref name="pmid12511804">{{cite journal| author=Fiellin DA, Samet JH, O'Connor PG| title=Reducing Bias in Observational Research on Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome. | journal=Subst Abus | year= 1998 | volume= 19 | issue= 1 | pages= 23-31 | pmid=12511804 | doi=10.1080/08897079809511370 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=12511804  }} </ref>
* Investigating the exact [[molecular]] and [[genetic]] mechanisms that cause the different [[symptoms]] of withdrawal
* Kindling and the [[risk factors]] that cause severe withdrawal
* The most appropriate [[treatment]]
* Methods that help the patients in relapse [[prevention]]
* Methods that improve the physician recognition of [[alcohol dependence]]
* Methods that improve receiving [[evidence-based]] treatment


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 16:50, 16 November 2020



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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Shakiba Hassanzadeh, MD[2] Aditya Govindavarjhulla, M.B.B.S. [3]

Overview

Alcohol withdrawal occurs with sudden discontinuation of alcohol intake after consumption of large quantities of alcohol for more than two weeks. The incidence of alcohol dependence is approximately 8 million individuals, annually, in the United States, and about 50% of them experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms with decreased or discontinuation of alcohol consumption. Common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal may include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, agitation, anxiety, irritability, insomnia, headache, diaphoresis, tremor, and the most severe symptoms in alcohol withdrawal include hallucinosis, seizures, and delirium tremens (DT). Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal usually resolve within seven days of alcohol intake discontinuation. Most patients with alcohol withdrawal have mild symptoms and may be treated with outpatient management. 5% of patients with alcohol withdrawal will present with severe alcohol withdrawal characteristics including seizures and delirium tremens (DT). The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria is used to diagnose alcohol withdrawal. The Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol (CIWA-A) scale is used to assess the severity of alcohol withdrawal. Benzodiazepines are currently the gold standard treatment of alcohol withdrawal such as diazepam, chlordiazepoxide, lorazepam, and oxazepam. Other drugs that may be used are phenobarbital, propofol, and dexmedetomidine. Thiamine is usually administered for prevention of Wernicke encephalopathy (prior to glucose administration).

Historical Perspective

The term 'alcoholism' was first used in medical texts by Magnus Huss in 1894.[1]

Classification

Stages of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) may be classified as:[2]

  • Uncomplicated withdrawal (first 6 hours)
  • Alcohol hallucinosis  (8-12 hours)
  • Alcohol withdrawal seizures (12-24 hours)
  • Alcohol withdrawal delirium (24-72 hours)

Pathophysiology

Under normal conditions in the brain, there is a balance between excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate and inhibitory neurotransmitters such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).[3]

Chronic alcohol intake and acute discontinuation of alcohol intake affect the balance of the neurotransmitters and cause many of the symptoms observed in alcohol withdrawal.[4] [5][2][3]

Acute Alcohol Consumption

Chronic Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol Withdrawal in Chronic Alcohol Consumption

Causes

Alcohol withdrawal occurs with sudden discontinuation of alcohol intake after consumption of large quantities of alcohol for more than two weeks.[13]

Differentiating Alcohol Withdrawal from Other Diseases

Alcohol withdrawal must also be differentiated from other diseases including:[14]

Epidemiology and Demographics

Risk Factors

Risk factors for alcohol withdrawal include:[14]

Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis

Diagnosis

Diagnostic Criteria

  • The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria is used to diagnose alcohol withdrawal.[14]
  • The Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol (CIWA-A) scale is used to assess the severity of alcohol withdrawal.[19]

History and Symptoms

The most common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include:[3]

The most severe symptoms in alcohol withdrawal include [3]

Physical Examination

Signs to consider in the physical examination of patients with alcohol withdrawal may include:[2]

Laboratory Findings

Routine laboratory tests should include:[4]

CT scan

Other Imaging Findings

Other Diagnostic Studies

Treatment

Medical Therapy

The medical management of alcohol withdrawal includes:[5][4]

Surgery

Surgical intervention is not recommended for the management of alcohol withdrawal.

Primary Prevention

Refraining from sudden and abrupt discontinuation of alcohol intake in individuals with alcohol dependence may be considered in the primary prevention of alcohol withdrawal.

Secondary Prevention

Long-term abstinence may be considered in the secondary prevention of alcohol withdrawal. Abstinence requires enrollment in long-term treatment programs in order to reduce the risk of relapse, such as:[23][13]

Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy

  • Outpatient detoxification and treatment are more cost-effective in patients with mid-to-moderate alcohol withdrawal symptoms. [24]
  • Outpatient treatment costs are about $175 to $388 per patient.
  • Inpatient treatment costs are about $3,319 to $3,665 per patient.

Future or Investigational Therapies

Further studies are required for:[3][25]

References

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  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 Wolf C, Curry A, Nacht J, Simpson SA (2020). "Management of Alcohol Withdrawal in the Emergency Department: Current Perspectives". Open Access Emerg Med. 12: 53–65. doi:10.2147/OAEM.S235288. PMC 7093658 Check |pmc= value (help). PMID 32256131 Check |pmid= value (help).
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Saitz R (1998). "Introduction to alcohol withdrawal". Alcohol Health Res World. 22 (1): 5–12. PMC 6761824 Check |pmc= value (help). PMID 15706727.
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  19. Sullivan JT, Sykora K, Schneiderman J, Naranjo CA, Sellers EM (1989). "Assessment of alcohol withdrawal: the revised clinical institute withdrawal assessment for alcohol scale (CIWA-Ar)". Br J Addict. 84 (11): 1353–7. doi:10.1111/j.1360-0443.1989.tb00737.x. PMID 2597811.
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  21. Bleich S, Sperling W, Degner D, Graesel E, Bleich K, Wilhelm J; et al. (2003). "Lack of association between hippocampal volume reduction and first-onset alcohol withdrawal seizure. A volumetric MRI study". Alcohol Alcohol. 38 (1): 40–4. doi:10.1093/alcalc/agg017. PMID 12554606.
  22. Hillmer AT, Mason GF, Fucito LM, O'Malley SS, Cosgrove KP (2015). "How Imaging Glutamate, γ-Aminobutyric Acid, and Dopamine Can Inform the Clinical Treatment of Alcohol Dependence and Withdrawal". Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 39 (12): 2268–82. doi:10.1111/acer.12893. PMC 4712074. PMID 26510169.
  23. Blondell RD (2005). "Ambulatory detoxification of patients with alcohol dependence". Am Fam Physician. 71 (3): 495–502. PMID 15712624.
  24. Hayashida M, Alterman AI, McLellan AT, O'Brien CP, Purtill JJ, Volpicelli JR, Raphaelson AH, Hall CP (1989). "Comparative effectiveness and costs of inpatient and outpatient detoxification of patients with mild-to-moderate alcohol withdrawal syndrome". The New England Journal of Medicine. 320 (6): 358–65. doi:10.1056/NEJM198902093200605. PMID 2913493. Retrieved 2012-08-16. Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  25. Fiellin DA, Samet JH, O'Connor PG (1998). "Reducing Bias in Observational Research on Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome". Subst Abus. 19 (1): 23–31. doi:10.1080/08897079809511370. PMID 12511804.