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What Are the Treatments for Alcohol Detoxification?

For those with no addictions, it can be difficult to imagine the power alcoholism has over its victims. Unlike so-called addictions to certain behaviors (which would more accurately be called obsessions or even habits), alcoholism is only partially rooted in psychological dependence. The rest is purely and dangerously physiological, and an alcoholic can actually experience severe withdrawals if trying to stop drinking. Detoxification programs aim to lessen these withdrawal symptoms and create an easier path for the alcoholic to recover.

  1. Withdrawal Symptoms

    • With the immediate cessation of alcohol consumption, withdrawal symptoms inevitably follow. The severity of these symptoms will depend on how addicted the person's body was to the alcohol and they can range from irritating to potentially life threatening. Some of the symptoms include headaches, sweats, depression and even seizures.

    Benzodiazepines

    • Benzodiazepines are the most common class of drugs used in treating a person suffering from alcohol withdrawal symptoms. The drugs are given to the patient in half hour intervals to begin with, and then tapered back over the next three to ten days. The drug may be administered immediately upon checking into a detoxification program, or it may be deferred until withdrawal symptoms begin to manifest.

    Carbamazepine

    • Recent studies have shown some benefit from using carbamazepine in the treatment of those undergoing alcohol detoxification. The drug is sold under the brand name Tegretol and is typically used to control seizures in the epileptic. This can serve a dual purpose in those who are so highly affected by the withdrawal that they experience seizures.

    Sympatholytics

    • Sympatholytics are used to control high blood pressure which can result from the tension caused by alcohol detoxification. It can also provide a general feeling of calmness for the patient, giving them some added strength to carry on through the detox process. They also have some power in controlling shakiness and seizures.

    Therapy

    • Although alcohol detoxification is mostly about getting the patient through the worst stages of the physical withdrawal, most detoxification programs come with a therapy component to help the patient overcome the psychological aspects of addiction as well. This therapy tries to get at the root of the drinking problem and address the underlying issues that might have led to the person turning to alcohol in the first place.

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