Alcohol dependence

Question 1

Alcohol dependence

Answer 1

~ cluster of behavioural, cognitive & physiological factors that typically include strong desire to drink alcohol, tolerance to its effects, & difficulties controlling its use. Someone who is alcohol-dependent may persist in drinking, despite harmful consequences, such as physical or mental health problems.

Question 2

alcohol withdrawal syndrome develops from

Answer 2

if severely dependent + drinking excessively for prolonged period of time, abrupt reduction in alcohol intake = can lead to seizures, delirium tremens, & death.

Question 3

Mild alcohol dependence (Assisted alcohol withdrawal)

Answer 3

do not need assisted alcohol withdrawal

Question 4

Moderate dependence (Assisted alcohol withdrawal)

Answer 4

generally be treated in community setting unless at high risk of developing alcohol withdrawal seizures or delirium tremens;

Question 5

Severe dependence (Assisted alcohol withdrawal)

Answer 5

undergo withdrawal in an inpatient setting.

Question 6

tx to attenuate alcohol withdrawal symptoms

Answer 6

long-acting benzodiazepine, i.e. chlordiazepoxide or diazepam

Question 7

who is @risk of Wernicke’s encephalopathy

Answer 7

pt with alcohol dependence / malnourished / decompensated liver disease

Question 8

Wernicke encephalopathy tx

Answer 8

~ Parenteral thiamine, followed by oral thiamine
~ Prophylactic oral thiamine given to harmful or dependent drinkers if in acute withdrawal, or before & during assisted alcohol withdrawal
~ Parenteral thiamine available as part of vitamin B substances with ascorbic acid preparation.