IDENTIFICATION AND
MANAGEMENT OF ALCOHOL
WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME
Chhavi Mudgal 22/721
PMBD
Govind Kumar 22/696
Mirijello, A., D’Angelo, C., Ferrulli, A., Vassallo, G., Antonelli, M., Caputo, F., ... &
Addolorato, G. (2015). Identification and management of alcohol withdrawal
syndrome. Drugs, 75, 353-365.
1
Table of Contents
2
PMBD
Introduction
Pathophysiology
Symptoms Identification
Diagnosis
Treatment
3
4
5
6
8
I
II
III
IV
V
2
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) affects around 18% of the
population over a lifetime and 5% annually, with nearly
20% of emergency room patients suffering from it.
Withdrawal symptoms occur in up to 50% of AUD
patients, with alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS)
developing 6–24 hours after reducing intake. Symptoms
range from mild (tremors, anxiety) to severe
(hallucinations, seizures), with treatment primarily
involving benzodiazepines. AWS can lead to significant
morbidity and mortality, making its identification and
management crucial in clinical settings.
I INTRODUCTION
3
2
Acute alcohol ingestion enhances GABAergic neurotransmission and
inhibits glutamatergic activity, leading to CNS depression. This occurs
through stimulation of GABAa receptors and inhibition of NMDA
receptors. Chronic alcohol exposure induces adaptive changes,
including down-regulation of GABAA receptors and up-regulation of
NMDA receptors, resulting in tolerance. Upon abrupt cessation, the
balance shifts, causing decreased GABA activity and increased
glutamatergic action, which can lead to alcohol withdrawal syndrome
(AWS) symptoms. "Kindling" may increase neuronal excitability after
repeated AWS episodes, contributing to more severe withdrawal
experiences.
Pathophysiology
4
2
Stage Time of Onset after last drink Signs and Symptoms
Minor Withdrawal Symptoms 6-12 hours
Tremors, diaphoresis, nausea/vomiting, hypertension, tachycardia,
hyperthermia, tachypnea
Alcoholic Hallucinosis 12-24 hours
Dysperceptions: Visual (zoopsy), auditory (voices) and tactile (paresthesia)
III
Alcohol Withdrawal Seizures 24-48 hours Generalized tonic-clonic seizures (with short or no postictal period)
Delirium Tremens 48-72 hours
delirium, psychosis, hallucinations, hyperthermia, malignant hypertension,
seizures and coma
5
2
IDENTIFICATION OF SYMPTOMS
6
Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) is a spectrum of
symptoms that can arise after abrupt cessation of alcohol
in dependent individuals. Symptoms typically begin 6-12
hours after the last drink and can escalate from mild
(tremors, anxiety) to severe (delirium tremens, seizures)
within days. Monitoring is crucial for at-risk patients,
especially those with altered consciousness. Screening tools
like CAGE and AUDIT are effective for identifying alcohol
use disorders. The severity of AWS can be assessed using
the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol
(CIWA-Ar) scale.
2
The DSM-5 criteria for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS)
requires an abrupt reduction in alcohol intake, with at least two
symptoms present, such as autonomic hyperactivity, tremors,
insomnia, nausea, hallucinations, agitation, anxiety, or seizures.
Differentiating AWS from other psychiatric disorders is crucial due
to overlapping symptoms. The CIWA-Ar scale effectively assesses
withdrawal severity, categorizing it as mild (<8), moderate (8-15), or
severe (>15). High CIWA-Ar scores indicate a need for
pharmacological intervention to prevent complications like
seizures and delirium tremens.
DIAGNOSIS
7
2
Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) can cause severe discomfort, with
symptoms ranging from mild anxiety to life-threatening conditions like
seizures and delirium. Effective treatment aims to alleviate these
symptoms, preventing complications and enhancing quality of life.
Patients with mild to moderate AWS can often be treated as outpatients,
while severe cases require inpatient monitoring for safety. The
establishment of Alcohol Addiction Units aids in managing AWS
efficiently, reducing hospitalization costs. Long-term recovery efforts
should focus on motivating patients to maintain abstinence and engage in
relapse prevention programs
II TREATMENT
8
Goals of Treatment
2
Non-pharmacologic interventions are the primary treatment for Alcohol
Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS), emphasizing reassurance, reality orientation, and
supportive nursing care. A calm environment is crucial, avoiding excessive
stimuli. Routine examinations should include assessing blood alcohol levels and
various health metrics. General supportive care focuses on correcting fluid and
electrolyte imbalances, with hydration and vitamin supplementation being vital.
Thiamine is essential to prevent Wernicke's encephalopathy and should be
administered before glucose infusions to avoid complications. Routine
magnesium administration is not supported unless specific conditions are
present
II TREATMENT
9
General Treatment and supportive care
2
III TREATMENT
10
The treatment of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) typically involves
long-acting medications that can be gradually tapered. The ideal drug
should have a rapid onset, long duration of action, and simple metabolism,
minimizing dependence on liver function. It must not interact with alcohol,
suppress drinking behavior without causing cognitive or motor
impairment, and have a low potential for abuse. Commonly used agents
include benzodiazepines like chlordiazepoxide and diazepam, which
effectively manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications
such as seizures and delirium
Drugs for Treatment of AWS
2
V TREATMENT
11
BENZODIAZEPINES
Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are the "gold standard" for treating
alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), effectively reducing
the incidence of seizures and delirium tremens (DT) by 84%
and minimizing mortality risks. They work by stimulating
GABAA receptors, mimicking alcohol's effects. Long-acting
agents like chlordiazepoxide and diazepam are preferred for
smoother withdrawal, while lorazepam and oxazepam are
recommended for patients with liver impairment due to their
lack of active metabolites. Treatment regimens can be
fixed-dose or symptom-triggered, with no clear superiority
among BZDs noted in studies
2
V TREATMENT
12
Barbiturates and Propofol
Barbiturates, particularly phenobarbital, have limited use in treating alcohol withdrawal
syndrome (AWS) due to their narrow therapeutic window and risk of excessive sedation.
However, in ICU settings, they are indicated for patients requiring high doses of
benzodiazepines (BZDs) or those developing delirium tremens (DT). The combination of BZDs
and barbiturates can enhance GABAA receptor binding, improving treatment efficacy and
potentially reducing the need for mechanical ventilation and ICU stay duration.
Propofol is emerging as a valuable option for severe DT cases that are resistant to high BZD
doses. It acts as a GABAA receptor agonist and NMDA receptor antagonist, allowing for rapid
assessment of mental status post-discontinuation. Its short duration of action makes it
suitable for managing refractory symptoms in AWS patients.
2
V TREATMENT
13
OTHER DRUGS
Alpha2-agonists, beta-blockers, and neuroleptics are adjunctive treatments for Alcohol
Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS), but not recommended as monotherapy due to risks of masking
symptoms and potential complications. Beta-blockers like atenolol may help with
hyperarousal in patients with coronary artery disease, while alpha2-agonists (e.g., clonidine)
can reduce autonomic hyperactivity but may cause sedation. Neuroleptics (e.g., haloperidol)
are contraindicated as monotherapy due to risks of seizures and prolonged delirium. Other
alternatives like carbamazepine and sodium oxybate show promise but require further
validation
CONCLUSION
Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) is a serious condition that can arise in patients with
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) upon abrupt cessation of alcohol. Diagnosis relies on the Clinical
Institute Withdrawal Assessment (CIWA-Ar) scale, which helps gauge severity and guide
treatment. Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are the primary treatment due to their efficacy in
preventing complications like seizures and delirium tremens (DT) 15. However, their addictive
potential limits long-term use. Alternative medications, such as carbamazepine and
gabapentin, may support management and reduce BZD reliance, enhancing overall
treatment outcomes for alcohol dependence.
14
Thank you
for listening!
PMBD

Group 7 ppt.sem5.2024_20241212_124004_0000.pdf

  • 1.
    IDENTIFICATION AND MANAGEMENT OFALCOHOL WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME Chhavi Mudgal 22/721 PMBD Govind Kumar 22/696 Mirijello, A., D’Angelo, C., Ferrulli, A., Vassallo, G., Antonelli, M., Caputo, F., ... & Addolorato, G. (2015). Identification and management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Drugs, 75, 353-365. 1
  • 2.
    Table of Contents 2 PMBD Introduction Pathophysiology SymptomsIdentification Diagnosis Treatment 3 4 5 6 8 I II III IV V
  • 3.
    2 Alcohol use disorder(AUD) affects around 18% of the population over a lifetime and 5% annually, with nearly 20% of emergency room patients suffering from it. Withdrawal symptoms occur in up to 50% of AUD patients, with alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) developing 6–24 hours after reducing intake. Symptoms range from mild (tremors, anxiety) to severe (hallucinations, seizures), with treatment primarily involving benzodiazepines. AWS can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, making its identification and management crucial in clinical settings. I INTRODUCTION 3
  • 4.
    2 Acute alcohol ingestionenhances GABAergic neurotransmission and inhibits glutamatergic activity, leading to CNS depression. This occurs through stimulation of GABAa receptors and inhibition of NMDA receptors. Chronic alcohol exposure induces adaptive changes, including down-regulation of GABAA receptors and up-regulation of NMDA receptors, resulting in tolerance. Upon abrupt cessation, the balance shifts, causing decreased GABA activity and increased glutamatergic action, which can lead to alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) symptoms. "Kindling" may increase neuronal excitability after repeated AWS episodes, contributing to more severe withdrawal experiences. Pathophysiology 4
  • 5.
    2 Stage Time ofOnset after last drink Signs and Symptoms Minor Withdrawal Symptoms 6-12 hours Tremors, diaphoresis, nausea/vomiting, hypertension, tachycardia, hyperthermia, tachypnea Alcoholic Hallucinosis 12-24 hours Dysperceptions: Visual (zoopsy), auditory (voices) and tactile (paresthesia) III Alcohol Withdrawal Seizures 24-48 hours Generalized tonic-clonic seizures (with short or no postictal period) Delirium Tremens 48-72 hours delirium, psychosis, hallucinations, hyperthermia, malignant hypertension, seizures and coma 5
  • 6.
    2 IDENTIFICATION OF SYMPTOMS 6 AlcoholWithdrawal Syndrome (AWS) is a spectrum of symptoms that can arise after abrupt cessation of alcohol in dependent individuals. Symptoms typically begin 6-12 hours after the last drink and can escalate from mild (tremors, anxiety) to severe (delirium tremens, seizures) within days. Monitoring is crucial for at-risk patients, especially those with altered consciousness. Screening tools like CAGE and AUDIT are effective for identifying alcohol use disorders. The severity of AWS can be assessed using the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol (CIWA-Ar) scale.
  • 7.
    2 The DSM-5 criteriafor Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) requires an abrupt reduction in alcohol intake, with at least two symptoms present, such as autonomic hyperactivity, tremors, insomnia, nausea, hallucinations, agitation, anxiety, or seizures. Differentiating AWS from other psychiatric disorders is crucial due to overlapping symptoms. The CIWA-Ar scale effectively assesses withdrawal severity, categorizing it as mild (<8), moderate (8-15), or severe (>15). High CIWA-Ar scores indicate a need for pharmacological intervention to prevent complications like seizures and delirium tremens. DIAGNOSIS 7
  • 8.
    2 Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome(AWS) can cause severe discomfort, with symptoms ranging from mild anxiety to life-threatening conditions like seizures and delirium. Effective treatment aims to alleviate these symptoms, preventing complications and enhancing quality of life. Patients with mild to moderate AWS can often be treated as outpatients, while severe cases require inpatient monitoring for safety. The establishment of Alcohol Addiction Units aids in managing AWS efficiently, reducing hospitalization costs. Long-term recovery efforts should focus on motivating patients to maintain abstinence and engage in relapse prevention programs II TREATMENT 8 Goals of Treatment
  • 9.
    2 Non-pharmacologic interventions arethe primary treatment for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS), emphasizing reassurance, reality orientation, and supportive nursing care. A calm environment is crucial, avoiding excessive stimuli. Routine examinations should include assessing blood alcohol levels and various health metrics. General supportive care focuses on correcting fluid and electrolyte imbalances, with hydration and vitamin supplementation being vital. Thiamine is essential to prevent Wernicke's encephalopathy and should be administered before glucose infusions to avoid complications. Routine magnesium administration is not supported unless specific conditions are present II TREATMENT 9 General Treatment and supportive care
  • 10.
    2 III TREATMENT 10 The treatmentof Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) typically involves long-acting medications that can be gradually tapered. The ideal drug should have a rapid onset, long duration of action, and simple metabolism, minimizing dependence on liver function. It must not interact with alcohol, suppress drinking behavior without causing cognitive or motor impairment, and have a low potential for abuse. Commonly used agents include benzodiazepines like chlordiazepoxide and diazepam, which effectively manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications such as seizures and delirium Drugs for Treatment of AWS
  • 11.
    2 V TREATMENT 11 BENZODIAZEPINES Benzodiazepines (BZDs)are the "gold standard" for treating alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), effectively reducing the incidence of seizures and delirium tremens (DT) by 84% and minimizing mortality risks. They work by stimulating GABAA receptors, mimicking alcohol's effects. Long-acting agents like chlordiazepoxide and diazepam are preferred for smoother withdrawal, while lorazepam and oxazepam are recommended for patients with liver impairment due to their lack of active metabolites. Treatment regimens can be fixed-dose or symptom-triggered, with no clear superiority among BZDs noted in studies
  • 12.
    2 V TREATMENT 12 Barbiturates andPropofol Barbiturates, particularly phenobarbital, have limited use in treating alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) due to their narrow therapeutic window and risk of excessive sedation. However, in ICU settings, they are indicated for patients requiring high doses of benzodiazepines (BZDs) or those developing delirium tremens (DT). The combination of BZDs and barbiturates can enhance GABAA receptor binding, improving treatment efficacy and potentially reducing the need for mechanical ventilation and ICU stay duration. Propofol is emerging as a valuable option for severe DT cases that are resistant to high BZD doses. It acts as a GABAA receptor agonist and NMDA receptor antagonist, allowing for rapid assessment of mental status post-discontinuation. Its short duration of action makes it suitable for managing refractory symptoms in AWS patients.
  • 13.
    2 V TREATMENT 13 OTHER DRUGS Alpha2-agonists,beta-blockers, and neuroleptics are adjunctive treatments for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS), but not recommended as monotherapy due to risks of masking symptoms and potential complications. Beta-blockers like atenolol may help with hyperarousal in patients with coronary artery disease, while alpha2-agonists (e.g., clonidine) can reduce autonomic hyperactivity but may cause sedation. Neuroleptics (e.g., haloperidol) are contraindicated as monotherapy due to risks of seizures and prolonged delirium. Other alternatives like carbamazepine and sodium oxybate show promise but require further validation
  • 14.
    CONCLUSION Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome(AWS) is a serious condition that can arise in patients with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) upon abrupt cessation of alcohol. Diagnosis relies on the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment (CIWA-Ar) scale, which helps gauge severity and guide treatment. Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are the primary treatment due to their efficacy in preventing complications like seizures and delirium tremens (DT) 15. However, their addictive potential limits long-term use. Alternative medications, such as carbamazepine and gabapentin, may support management and reduce BZD reliance, enhancing overall treatment outcomes for alcohol dependence. 14
  • 15.