Withdrawal

Withdrawal

This section contains the articles on withdrawal syndromes, each of which describes and discusses withdrawal signs, symptoms, and treatment. The following substances are covered: Alcohol; Benzodiazepines; Cocaine; Nicotine (Tobacco); and Nonabused Drugs. For descriptions and discussions of withdrawal from Amphetamines, see Amphetamine; Anabolic Steroids, see Anabolic Steroids; Barbiturates, see Barbiturates; Caffeine, see Caffeine; Cannabis, see Cannabis, see also Marijuana; for Heroin, Opiates/Opioids, see Opioid Complications and Withdrawal. For additional information, see also Treatment.

Alcohol

The nervous system undergoes adaptation in response to the chronic consumption of alcohol (ethanol). If consumption is heavy enough (adequate dose) and occurs for a long enough time period (duration), a withdrawal syndrome will ensue following a rapid decrease or sudden cessation of drinking. This occurs in association with readaptation of the nervous system to a drug-free state. The dose and duration of alcohol consumption required to produce a withdrawal syndrome in a given population or even a given individual are difficult to predict, since no well-controlled studies have been conducted (or are likely to be, for ethical reasons). Such studies have been done in animals. The goals of treatment are to relieve discomfort and to prevent complications.

In the nondrinker or social drinker who consumes alcohol to the point of legal intoxication, an acute withdrawal syndrome may ensue ("hang-over").

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