35th AM (2024) - Poster Session-Detox Dilemma Beyond Benzo Clonidines Quandry updated

Detox Dilemma Beyond Benzo Clonidines Quandry updated

Pdf Summary

The article addresses the complexities of managing alcohol withdrawal, particularly the role of benzodiazepines and clonidine in treatment protocols. Benzodiazepines are the primary treatment option for alcohol withdrawal, yet their use often persists even when alternative medications might be more appropriate. The study specifically examines the prevalent use of benzodiazepines within the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol (CIWA) protocols, even when blood pressure and heart rate are elevated but CIWA scores fall below the treatment threshold.<br /><br />The study is a retrospective chart review conducted at a single-site Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facility, analyzing cases from July 2022 to June 2023. It excludes patients with concurrent opioid withdrawal or those already on clonidine. Results highlight a mismatch between actual clinical practices and the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) guidelines, which suggest that alternative treatments, including clonidine, could be considered for managing autonomic symptoms.<br /><br />The findings emphasize frequent benzodiazepine use in situations where clonidine could potentially be beneficial, particularly in patients with underlying hypertension. The study calls for a reconsideration of current practices to potentially reduce benzodiazepine usage, improve patient outcomes, and better align with evidence-based guidelines.<br /><br />The study underlines the need for further investigation into alternative strategies to enhance alcohol withdrawal management. It encourages alignment with comprehensive ASAM guidelines to optimize patient care effectively. The research signifies a critical examination of traditional reliance on benzodiazepines, suggesting a potential role for clonidine as an adjunctive treatment in select cases of alcohol withdrawal.

Keywords

alcohol withdrawal

benzodiazepines

clonidine

treatment protocols

CIWA

ASAM guidelines

hypertension

Department of Veterans Affairs

retrospective chart review

alternative treatments

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