Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome

Given the prevalence of alcohol use disorders, the health impacts and healthcare costs of alcohol-related health complications are large and concerning. The major life-threatening complication related to alcohol use disorder is known as alcohol withdrawal. Providers in all fields need to be aware of the basic pathophysiology and related evidence-based treatment approaches, given the prevalence of withdrawal states and the potentially fatal consequences of improper treatment. Setting and overall approaches to treating alcohol withdrawal are additionally becoming broader and more patient-centered to give patients and providers a wider variety of options for successful safe treatment. It is critical to screen patients for their risk of alcohol withdrawal in the inpatient setting, identify patients at high risk for withdrawal states, and adequately provide appropriate medications to prevent complications, including seizure and death. The event of alcohol withdrawal and subsequent management can provide an opportunity to discuss alcohol use disorder diagnosis and explore a patient’s motivation for treatment, including initiation of medications. Alcohol withdrawal, when identified and managed correctly, can be a valuable time to discuss the role of alcohol in a person’s life and connect to high-quality care after recovery from the withdrawal state.