3 regimens for alcohol withdrawal and detoxification.

Abstract

Physiology Alcohol enhances gamma-aminobutyric acid’s (GABA) inhibitory effects on signal-receiving neurons, thereby lowering neuronal activity, leading to an increase in excitatory glutamate receptors. Over time, tolerance occurs as GABA receptors become less responsive to neurotransmitters, and more alcohol is required to produce the same inhibitory effect. When alcohol is removed acutely, the number of excitatory glutamate receptors remains, but without the suppressive GABA effect. This situation leads to the signs and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Practice recommendations