SCCM Resource Library-Benzodiazepines: Shut Up Liver, You're Fine

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Jen, a critical care pharmacist at UC Davis, discusses benzodiazepines for severe alcohol withdrawal. Despite limited new evidence on benzodiazepines, they remain first-line treatment according to the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Jen suggests using diazepam for its rapid peak, context-sensitive half-time, and IV availability, while adjusting doses for liver-impaired patients. Emphasizing symptom-triggered therapy, she advises using validated assessment scales to guide dosing. The treatment aims to address the GABA-glutamate imbalance caused by withdrawal, with a focus on individualizing therapy, finding the minimally effective dose, and limiting therapy duration to reduce risks.

Asset Caption

45-Minute Session | 12 (or So) Steps for Putting "Happy" Back in "Happy Hour": Strategies for Alcohol Withdrawal

Meta Tag

Content Type Presentation

Membership Level Professional

Membership Level Select

Year 2024

Keywords

benzodiazepines

alcohol withdrawal

diazepam

symptom-triggered therapy

GABA-glutamate imbalance

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