Alcohol Withdrawal Signs, Symptoms, Medication, and Treatment in Palm Desert, CA

What Medications Are Prescribed to Treat Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) ?

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome medication is prescribed to manage withdrawal symptoms, cleanse your body of toxins, and avoid complications. The medication administered will depend on the gravity of your alcohol addiction. Here are some of the leading medications that are typically used to help you get through your alcohol detox program:

Benzodiazepines (Diazepam, Lorazepam, Chlordiazepoxide and Oxazepam)

This is the most commonly utilized medication for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS). They will help prevent seizures and delirium tremens (DTs), promote sedation, and reduce agitation and anxiety. These are best for patients who are dealing with severe alcohol addiction.

Anticonvulsants (Carbamazepine, Gabapentin and Valproic Acid)

Anticonvulsants, or antiepileptic drugs, can be used to deal with withdrawal symptoms for mild to moderate alcohol addiction. Benefits of these medications include a reduction in withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, seizures, and tremors, reduced alcohol cravings, and assistance in mood stabilization.

Side effects to watch out for include dizziness, sedation, weight gain, fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, blood disorders, hyponatremia, hair thinning, gastrointestinal issues, pancreatitis, and teratogenic effects.

Adrenergic Medications (Clonidine and Propranolol)

Clonidine is classified as an Alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, and it will provide relief from some autonomic symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, including sweating, high blood pressure, and elevated heart rate. Propranolol is a non-selective beta-blocker that helps manage tremors, anxiety, and tachycardia that come with alcohol withdrawal.

Antipsychotic Medications (Haloperidol and Olanzapine)

These medications assist patients in managing autonomic symptoms associated with alcohol addiction, including high blood pressure, severe agitation, hallucinations, tremors, and increased heart rate. Haloperidol is a first-generation antipsychotic that blocks dopamine D2 receptors. Olanzapine is a second-generation antipsychotic, and it blocks dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A.

Vitamins (Thiamine, Magnesium and Multivitamins)

When you’re managing alcohol withdrawal symptoms, vitamins play a huge role and address deficiencies. Lacking thiamine (vitamin B1) can cause neurological problems. Magnesium is also very common for patients who have alcohol use disorder (AUD). Multivitamins are important because alcohol addiction typically causes a shortage of those vitamins in your body.

What Are Signs and Symptoms of AWS?

The symptoms and signs of alcohol withdrawal syndrome, also known as Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS), can be mild, moderate, or severe. If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol addiction withdrawal symptoms, don’t wait another second to contact us.

Mild Symptoms from Alcohol Withdrawal

Mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms are less intense than severe withdrawal, but that doesn’t mean they are not difficult to handle. Some common mild symptoms include:

• Anxiety: Experiencing restlessness or unease.
• Irritability: Being easily frustrated or angered.
• Fatigue: Feeling abnormally tired.
• Insomnia: Struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep.
• Headaches: Frequent headaches, particularly tension-related.
• Sweating: Increased perspiration, especially in the palms and forehead.
• Nausea or Vomiting: Experiencing an upset stomach or vomiting.
• Appetite Loss: Noticing a decreased appetite or lack of interest in eating.
• Tremors (Shakes): Shaky hands or trembling, particularly in the morning.
• Mood Swings: Experiencing rapid mood changes, such as sadness or agitation.

Moderate Symptoms from Alcohol Withdrawal

Alcohol withdrawal moderate symptoms usually begin about six to twelve hours after your final drink and can last up to several days. If you’re dealing with moderate-level symptoms, it’s essential to seek the help of a medical professional. The main moderate symptoms include:

 Confusion: Troubles thinking clearly and focusing.

• Increased Heart Rate: Elevated pulse, often with palpitations.
• Loss of Appetite: Lack of interest in food and not feeling hungry.
• High Blood Pressure: Blood pressure may spike.
• Fever: Low-grade fever or chills.
• Hallucinations: Visual or auditory hallucinations, often frightening.
• Profuse Sweating: Intense sweating, especially at night.
• Muscle Pain: Aches, cramps, or overall body pain.
• Heightened Anxiety or Panic: Intense feelings of worry or fear.

Severe Symptoms (Delirium Tremens, Medical Emergency) from Alcohol Withdrawal

Severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as delirium tremens (DTs) commonly occur after binge drinking and are potentially life-threatening. Typically, it begins 48 to 72 hours after your last drink and can last up to seven to ten days after withdrawal ends. Some symptoms to look out for include:

• Severe Confusion (Delirium): Disorientation and a lack of awareness of one’s surroundings.
• Seizures: Risk of unexpected seizures occurring.
• Dehydration: The loss or depletion of water from the body.
• Intense Hallucinations: Experiencing sights, sounds, or sensations that are not real.
• Severe Agitation: Extreme restlessness, agitation, or aggressive behavior.
• High Fever: Significantly elevated body temperature posing risks.
• Severe Hypertension: Critically high levels of blood pressure.
• Tachycardia: Abnormally fast heartbeat.