Recovery from alcohol addiction is a decision that can impact a person’s entire life, providing healing to physical, mental, and emotional damage that addiction often causes. For some people, the first challenge on the path to recovery is withdrawal. Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can be severe, and in some cases, life-threatening, so access to expert care, high-quality treatment, and alcohol withdrawal medications is critical. Understanding the common medicines used to treat alcohol withdrawal can help you feel confident going into detox.
At Rise in Malibu, we provide patients with a level of care and support they will not find anywhere else. Patients will receive not only the medical care they need to manage withdrawal symptoms safely but also the emotional support and treatment they need to understand and manage their addiction.
With access to professionals who will carefully integrate medication and treatment in a setting of luxury amenities, patients can move through the withdrawal process safely and comfortably.
For those of you or a loved one considering treatment options, having a general understanding of some of the most common medications for alcohol withdrawal may be helpful. Below, we go over some of the more common medications, how they help manage alcohol withdrawal, and how a program like Rise Malibu can help.
Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal and The Need for Medications
Alcohol withdrawal begins when someone who is physically dependent on alcohol suddenly reduces or stops drinking. This can lead to a range of symptoms, both mild and severe, as the body and brain adjust to the absence of alcohol. For individuals with mild to severe dependence, withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, tremors, sweating, nausea, agitation, and, in some cases, a more dangerous condition known as delirium tremens (DTs).
DTs, which can cause confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and cardiovascular complications, occur in approximately 3–5% of individuals with severe alcohol withdrawal and can be fatal if untreated (NIAAA, 2023).
The use of carefully prescribed medications during this phase, often referred to as Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for withdrawal, plays a vital role in reducing these symptoms and managing complications safely.
Common Medications Used During Alcohol Withdrawal
Detox from alcohol involves using various medications to treat the physical and psychological symptoms you experience while you are coming off alcohol. There are five main types of medicines used during alcohol detox.
1. Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are the standard medication used for alcohol withdrawal. Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium) or lorazepam (Ativan), calm down the central nervous system and prevent seizures. Benzodiazepines also ease symptoms like anxiety, irritability, and trembling. This makes the withdrawal symptoms easier to deal with.
ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) guidelines say that benzodiazepines are effective for preventing and treating major symptoms like seizures and DTs. (ASAM, 2020).
2. Anticonvulsants
In some instances, your doctor may prescribe anticonvulsant drugs, such as carbamazepine or gabapentin. Anticonvulsants are generally used as a substitute for benzodiazepines for people who cannot tolerate them. Anticonvulsants also help to prevent seizures and can ease psychological symptoms like anxiety or restlessness.
3. Beta Blockers and Alpha-2 Agonists
Beta blockers like propranolol and alpha-2 agonists like clonidine are sometimes used to control the physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. They are not the standard medications for detox, but they can treat physical symptoms like high blood pressure and rapid heartbeat. Beta blockers and alpha-2 agonists can be part of a complete care plan, but by themselves, they won’t treat all the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
4. Vitamins and Nutritional Support
Chronic alcohol use can cause nutritional deficiencies, including a lack of essential vitamins like thiamine (vitamin B1). Alcohol use can cause a brain disorder known as Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. Replenishing vitamins and minerals like thiamine is an essential part of alcohol withdrawal treatment.
5. Naltrexone and Other Long-Term Supportive Medications
Medications like naltrexone or acamprosate are usually not used in the initial alcohol detox process. They are primarily prescribed for long-term recovery. These medications may be used after alcohol detox to help prevent relapse and decrease cravings.
Alcohol detox is usually a short process that focuses on getting through the most severe withdrawal symptoms. Most medications used in alcohol detox focus on the physical symptoms of withdrawal.
How Medications Help Achieve Positive Outcomes
The significance of medication in treating alcohol withdrawal lies in its ability to mitigate symptoms that might otherwise discourage or derail recovery. By creating a safer withdrawal process, medications encourage individuals to complete detox and move into the subsequent phases of their treatment journey.
Statistics further validate its importance:
- People who receive medically managed detox, including medications, are more likely to complete their treatment program and transition into long-term recovery (SAMHSA, 2020).
- A review of clinical trials found that benzodiazepines reduce the incidence of seizures in individuals undergoing alcohol withdrawal by up to 84% (Addiction Medicine, 2019).
At Rise Malibu, our clients benefit from a comprehensive Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) approach that not only reduces the discomfort of withdrawal but also instills hope and strength to continue their recovery.
Medications Used to Treat Alcohol at Rise Malibu
Our approach to addiction treatment at Rise Malibu is grounded in clinical expertise, compassion, and unmatched luxury. Here’s what makes our program for alcohol withdrawal care stand out:
Medical Expertise
Our highly trained team of addiction professionals carefully monitors every individual, customizing medication plans to match your needs and ensure optimal results.
Integrative and Holistic Care
In addition to MAT, we incorporate therapies such as mindfulness, yoga, and nutritional counseling to promote emotional and physical well-being throughout the recovery process.
Personalized Recovery Plans
We understand that no two journeys are the same. That’s why your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific challenges, goals, and history.
Luxury and Comfort
Our Malibu location offers a sophisticated, private environment designed to put you at ease. From serene views to high-end amenities, Rise Malibu is a sanctuary where healing begins.
Learn More About Medications Used to Treat Alcohol Withdrawal Today
Struggling with alcohol addiction can be a difficult path to walk alone. But here at Rise Malibu, we have the tools to provide you or your loved one with the utmost care. We use medication and individualized therapy programs to help you transition to a life of recovery with confidence and ease.
Give us a call today and begin your journey to a healthier life. Recovery can happen. With you, and with us, by your side at Rise Malibu.
