Benzodiazepines for Alcohol Withdrawal

What are Benzodiazepines?

buy subutex online.Benzodiazepines or benzos are a class of depressant medications prescribed to manage insomnia, anxiety, panic disorders, seizures and muscle spasms.

They are also used to manage and treat acute alcohol withdrawal—this is because they can relieve symptoms, reduce the risk of complications like seizures and delirium tremens and decrease cravings.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Benzos Can Treat

Benzodiazepines have a similar mechanism of action as alcohol, which means they are highly effective at relieving alcohol withdrawal symptoms, such as:[2]

Anxiety
Panic attacks
Hand tremor
Shakiness
Sweating
Rapid pulse
Nausea and vomiting
Hallucinations or psychosis
Seizures

Which Benzodiazepines Are Used for Alcohol Withdrawal Treatment?

Many benzodiazepines are suitable choices for alcohol withdrawal treatment, with the goal generally being an option that works quickly and is long-lasting. Common choices include the following:buy subutex online

Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
Diazepam (Valium)
Lorazepam (Ativan)
Oxazepam 

These benzodiazepines are the best-studied medications for alcohol withdrawal, although other drugs in this class may be used as well.[1] Generally, long-acting benzos with larger half-lives are better because they need to be administered less frequently, which is why Xanax, a short-acting medication, is usually not the first choice. Also, short-acting benzos have a greater chance of rebound symptoms of withdrawal.buy subutex online

How Are Benzodiazepines Given During Alcohol Detox?

Benzodiazepines may not be necessary for mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms. They are more commonly used when a patient has a history of complicated or severe withdrawal or they have severe alcohol use disorder. Benzos are usually administered in an inpatient setting, such as in the hospital, for patients undergoing acute alcohol withdrawal.buy subutex online. Benzodiazepines are usually given orally but can also be administered intravenously for severe and rapid symptom relief.

Symptom-Triggered Regimen (STR)

The first is through what is called a symptom-triggered regimen (STR) where a person’s withdrawal symptoms are rated via a scale, and drug doses are administered based on withdrawal severity.[1],[3] This is typically the preferred treatment method as it involves the least use of medication and doctors don’t run the risk of over-sedation.

Only used in inpatient settings
Is best done under medical supervision
Suitable for mild to severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms
Dose is based on the patient’s self-reporting

Fixed Tapering Dose Regimen (FTDR)

Another option is a fixed tapering dose regimen (FTDR), where a patient receives fixed doses of benzodiazepine on a predetermined schedule, tapering off them over time. This method is helpful when a patient can’t be monitored as closely by a trained professional or when they may be unable or unwilling to rate their withdrawal symptoms on a scale.buy subutex online

Best for an outpatient setting
Dose isn’t individualized or tailored
Works for mild symptoms

Loading Dose Regimen (LDR)

The last option is what is called a loading dose regimen (LDR), where long-acting benzodiazepines are given in high doses immediately, usually in the case of someone with a history of severe alcohol withdrawal in anticipation of another complicated withdrawal. This method requires very close monitoring and may require admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). buy subutex online

Best for people at risk of severe withdrawal / delirium tremens
Only used in a hospital that allows monitoring
Best way to prevent seizures

Benefits of Benzodiazepines for Alcohol Withdrawal

There are many advantages of using benzodiazepines to manage alcohol withdrawal, including: [1]

Thttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphineon
They help provide a humane and safe detox environment
They can prevent delirium tremens, agitation and seizures, which can be life-threatening otherwise
There are many benzodiazepines to choose from, enabling tailored treatment
They are generally well-tolerated
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine and then transition into alcohol rehab
They have a wide margin of safety
They have a low risk of dependence and tolerance when used short-term

Medical Detox: The Safest Setting for Alcohol Withdrawal

If you have an alcohol use disorder and need help quitting drinking, a medical detox setting is considered the safest environment. Medical detox can occur in a number of settings, including:

Psychiatric hospital
Acute care unit
Freestanding detox center that offers medical care
Inpatient rehab that offers medical care