Alcohol Withdrawal Medication OptionsBy Michaela

Alcohol withdrawal refers to the symptoms that can occur when someone who is heavily dependent on alcohol suddenly stops or reduces their alcohol intake. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include tremors, anxiety, insomnia, and even seizures. It is important to seek medical treatment for alcohol withdrawal, as it can be dangerous to try to stop drinking without professional help.

There are several medications that can be used to help manage the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. These include benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, beta-blockers, and antidepressants. 

It is important to work with a medical professional to determine the best medication plan for each individual, as the specific medications and dosages will vary based on the severity of the withdrawal symptoms and the patient’s medical history.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are a commonly used medication for alcohol withdrawal due to their effectiveness in calming the central nervous system and reducing anxiety and insomnia. They work by increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which helps to relax the body and mind. Diazepam and lorazepam are two commonly used benzodiazepines for alcohol withdrawal. Diazepam is a long-acting benzodiazepine that is typically taken in divided doses throughout the day, while lorazepam is a short-acting benzodiazepine that is typically taken as needed for anxiety or insomnia.

While benzodiazepines can be effective in managing alcohol withdrawal symptoms, they can also have some potential drawbacks. They can be addictive, so they should typically be used for a short period of time during the withdrawal process. In addition, they can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired memory and coordination. It is important to carefully follow the instructions of a medical professional when taking benzodiazepines and to not drink alcohol while taking these medications.

Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants are medications that can help prevent seizures and reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. They work by decreasing the activity of neurons in the brain and can be used to treat a range of neurological conditions, including epilepsy and alcohol withdrawal. Carbamazepine and valproic acid are two commonly used anticonvulsants for alcohol withdrawal. Carbamazepine is typically taken in divided doses throughout the day and can be used to treat tremors and seizures, while valproic acid is typically taken once or twice a day and can be used to treat tremors and other physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

Like benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants can also have some potential drawbacks. They can cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea, and they may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions. It is important to carefully follow the instructions of a medical professional when taking anticonvulsants and to inform the healthcare provider of any other medications being taken.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers are medications that can be used to help control tremors and other physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. They work by blocking the action of adrenaline, a hormone that can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Propranolol and atenolol are two commonly used beta-blockers for alcohol withdrawal. Propranolol is a long-acting beta blocker that is typically taken in divided doses throughout the day, while atenolol is a short-acting beta blocker that is typically taken once or twice a day.

Beta-blockers can be effective in managing the physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, but they may not be suitable for everyone. They can cause side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty breathing, and they may not be safe for people with certain medical conditions. It is important to carefully follow the instructions of a medical professional when taking beta blockers and to inform the healthcare provider of any other medications being taken.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are medications that can be used to help manage anxiety and insomnia during alcohol withdrawal. They work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which can help improve mood and sleep. Trazodone and mirtazapine are two commonly used antidepressants for alcohol withdrawal. Trazodone is typically taken once a day at bedtime and can be used to treat insomnia, while mirtazapine is typically taken once a day and can be used to treat anxiety and insomnia.

Antidepressants can be effective in managing the emotional symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, but they may take several weeks to start working and may cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. It is important to carefully follow the instructions of a medical professional when taking antidepressants and to inform the healthcare provider of any other medications being taken.

Medication Alternative: Consider Coaching

Alcohol coaching involves working with a trained professional who can provide support and guidance as you work to reduce your alcohol intake or achieve abstinence. Alcohol coaches can help you develop coping skills, set goals, and identify and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to your alcohol use. 

Alcohol coaching can be done in person or online, and it can be a useful complement to other forms of treatment, such as therapy or medication. If you are interested in pursuing alcohol coaching, it is important to work with a trained and qualified professional who has experience in this area. You can ask your healthcare provider for recommendations or search online directories of alcohol coaches to find a qualified professional in your area.

While there are various approaches to addressing alcohol dependency, some may not be as effective as others. For example, certain programs may rely on stigmatizing labels or perpetuate negative beliefs, which can hinder an individual’s progress toward recovery. On the other hand, programs like The Alcohol Coach offer a more empowering and positive approach that has been shown to have a higher success rate.

The Alcohol Coach focuses on helping individuals gain control over their alcohol use rather than the opposite. By using a label-free approach and emphasizing empowerment and positivity, The Alcohol Coach aims to provide the tools and support needed to overcome alcohol dependency and achieve long-term recovery. If you are seeking a program that can help you address alcohol dependency in a positive and effective manner, you may want to consider learning more about The Alcohol Coach’s available programs.

Let’s Recap

There are several options available for managing the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and addressing alcohol dependency. Medications can be effective in relieving different symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, but they may also have potential drawbacks and side effects. 

Alcohol coaching, on the other hand, can provide support and guidance as you work to reduce your alcohol intake or achieve abstinence. To achieve the best results, you should work with an alcohol coach who is qualified and trained. 

Therapy and support groups can also be important parts of recovering from alcohol addiction, in addition to medications and coaching. Working with a medical expert to choose the appropriate course of action for every patient is crucial. You should also be aware of the potential drawbacks and advantages of each treatment option.