Alcohol withdrawal seizures: Alternatives for treatment and prevention

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Abstract
Both sedative and nonsedative anticonvulsants can be used for the prevention of alcohol withdrawal seizures. However, only a small group of alcoholics may develop seizures and, therefore, all alcoholics need not to be treated. Those abusing psychotropic drugs form a special risk group which needs protective medication for a couple of weeks after drug withdrawal. Other groups that may benefit from anticonvulsants are those patients who are admitted to hospital while being intoxicated by alcohol and those who have had frequent seizures. In other cases, it is preferable to wait until the first seizure arises, rather than routinely follow a detoxification protocol. If a seizure occurs, it is advisable to treat it promptly rather than wait for more seizures and delirium. Outpatient alcoholics should not be prescribed anticonvulsants, since they are prone to erratic drug intake and drug abuse. If needed, nonsedative anticonvulsants can be given to them daily under strict control at the outpatient department.

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