Seizure Medicines for Alcohol WithdrawalCurrent as of: October 9, 2017 |
|
Seizure Medicines for Alcohol WithdrawalTopic OverviewSeizure medicines are normally used to treat seizures , but they are also used successfully to treat mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms during detoxification from alcohol dependence . Currently, there is good evidence that carbamazepine (for example, Tegretol), valproate (for example, Depakote), and phenytoin (for example, Dilantin) are effective in reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms and emotional distress related to withdrawal. footnote 1 Seizure medicines can be used safely over a long period of time. Side effects of seizure medicines can include:
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning on seizure medicines and the risk of suicide and suicidal thoughts. The FDA does not recommend that people stop using these medicines. Instead, people who take seizure medicine should be watched closely for warning signs of suicide. People who take seizure medicine and who are worried about this side effect should talk to a doctor. See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.) Related InformationReferences
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff Current as ofOctober 9, 2017
Current as of: October 9, 2017 Kosten TR, O'Connor PG (2003). Management of drug and alcohol withdrawal. New England Journal of Medicine, 348(18): 1786-1795.
|
Search the
Healthwise Knowledgebase Topic ContentsThis information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2018 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. |