Review of Abstinence Syndrome: A Comprehensive Analysis of Current Practices and Recommendations

Abstract

Alcohol use disorder is frequently accompanied with the diverse and sometimes fatal consequence of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). Many patients with AUD may develop AWS during their Emergency Department stay, and AUD is one of the top causes of death worldwide. This study summarizes the etiology, epidemiology, and emergency management of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome and Alcohol Use Disorder.The influence of AWS on the therapy of ED is highlighted, along with its temporal course. Once AWS is diagnosed, the most common therapy is still symptom- triggered benzodiazepine injection; however, patients who have significant medical or psychiatric comorbidities or are about to be discharged may not be good candidates for this approachIn these circumstances, emergency department doctors can consider employing alternative regimens based on state-of-the-art anticonvulsants or shorter barbiturate durations. For clinical practice, specific treatment procedures are described. Lastly, in addition to managing acute patients' AWS, emergency physicians also need to provide the groundwork for effective AUD therapy. A strategy for the patient with AUD's disposition is offered.