title: Alcohol withdrawal syndrome: preventive measures.
abstract: A withdrawal syndrome of variable intensity and severity may be triggered when an alcohol-dependent individual stops drinking altogether or significantly reduces alcohol consumption. Preventive measures can be implemented after identifying patients at risk of a severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Patients at risk of alcohol withdrawal syndrome should be closely monitored during the first 48 hours of abstinence, either on an outpatient or inpatient basis. When medication is needed to prevent alcohol withdrawal syndrome, a benzodiazepine is the drug of first choice.
mesh_terms: D001569:Benzodiazepines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000431:Ethanol / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control*
chemical_list: D001569:Benzodiazepines; D000431:Ethanol