Alcohol detoxification is also known as 'detox'. Detoxification in individuals with alcohol dependence can be described as an abrupt cessation of alcohol intake. This abrupt cessation is coupled with the substitution of alcohol with different cross-tolerant drugs. These cross-tolerant drugs of detoxification have similar effects which prevent alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Detoxification may or may not be necessary. It depends upon an individual's age, his or her medical status and the history of alcohol intake. A young man who binges on drinks and goes for treatment one week after his last intake of alcohol will not require a detoxification process before the treatment. A common family drug used for detoxification is Benzodiazepines. Apart from this, barbiturates is a commonly used drug.
Some medicines in the Benzodiazepines category are diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan) and oxazepam (Serax). These are the most commonly used drugs which help in reducing alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Various treatment patterns are used in the process of detoxification.
In the first option, varying degrees of tolerance are taken into consideration. A standard dose of the benzodiazepine is given every half hour till the patient reaches a stage of light sedation. Later, a baseline dose is determined which is changed after every 8 to 10 days.
Apart from this, a standard dose of benzodiazepine may be prescribed based on the history of the patient. This dose is adjusted on the basis of the withdrawal phenomenon.
Another option in case of detoxification is to defer treatment until the symptoms occur. This method is not used in patients with prior alcohol related seizures. Apart from this, dosing of the benzodiazepines also depends on CIWA-Ar scale.
The doctors have to choose the benzodiazepines before prescribing them to the patients. Chlordiazepoxide is the used in case of uncomplicated alcohol withdrawal. Lorazepam or diazepam are prescribed for patients who cannot safely take oral medications. Lorazepam as well as oxazepam are best for patients who are diagnosed with cirrhosis.
Piracetam is another medicine used for detoxification. It reduces the levels of lipofuscin in the rat brain. This is a common symptom of aging and alcoholism. Sympatholytics and Carbamazepine are also used for detoxification. Sometimes, hospitals administer alcohol in order to prevent alcohol withdrawal symptoms. However, this can lead to potential problems in certain cases.
Vitamins such as Vitamin B are also used during withdrawal treatment. Apart from this, Sodium oxybate is used for both acute alcohol withdrawal and medium to long-term detoxification.
To know more about alcohol abuse and treatments of alcoholism, take a look at the pages of alcoholabusehub.com.
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