WHO Alcohol Withdrawal Treatment Guidelines

What interventions are safe and effective for the management of alcohol withdrawal, including treatment for alcohol withdrawal seizures and prevention and treatment for acute Wernicke's encephalopathy?

Alcohol withdrawal can be uncomfortable and occasionally life-threatening. Pharmacological management of alcohol withdrawal is an essential component of alcohol dependence. Benzodiazepines (BZDs), non-sedating anticonvulsants, and antipsychotics are commonly used in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal.

Given that they are all potentially toxic medications, what is the evidence that the benefits of their use justify the risks? Which is more effective?

Below, I summarize the WHO 2012 Guidelines to treat Alcohol Withdrawal that explains the answers to these questions.

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