WHO Management of Alcohol Withdrawal

Alcohol withdrawal can be uncomfortable and occasionally life threatening. Pharmacological management of alcohol withdrawal is an essential component of alcohol dependence. Benzodiazepines (BZDs), non­sedating anticonvulsants and antipsychotics are commonly used in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal.

The purpose of this review was to uncover which interventions are safe and effective for the management of alcohol withdrawal, including treatment for alcohol withdrawal seizures and prevention and treatment for acute Wernicke's encephalopathy.