DETOX OFF ALCOHOL

Alcohol is of course the most widely abused addictive drug in the world. Some patients are able to stop on their own but many patients have an alcohol withdrawal syndrome which can be very uncomfortable and can even be fatal. At its worst, detoxifying off alcohol can lead to seizures or a life threatening condition known as DT’s (Delirium Tremens). In the past, most patients needed to be in a hospital to detox off of alcohol but at The Coleman Institute we have developed a program where we can safely detoxify almost all alcoholics on an outpatient basis, over about 3-4 days.

Our out-patient alcohol detoxification program begins with a screening process to make sure that the patient is appropriate for the outpatient procedure and that they have the necessary support person to help them manage medications at home. On the first day patients attend the clinic they receive a comprehensive history and physical including lab work. Patients are then given an IV cocktail of medications designed to replenish the missing and depleted nutrients and neurochemicals that the alcohol has depleted from the brain. These nutrients include thiamine, magnesium and folate. If these nutrients are not replenished quickly severe brain damage can ensue. Patients are then given a Phenobarbital challenge. This medication both prevents seizures and dramatically calms the patient.  The Phenobarbital provides relief and begins the detoxification process in a comfortable and safe way. Additional doses of Phenobarbital are given until the patient shows signs that the detoxification process is under good control. This usually takes about 3-4 hours.

Following the Phenobarbital challenge the patient can be discharged home in the care of their support person. Medication doses are calculated and dispensed by the support person. The patient returns to the clinic on a daily basis over the next couple of days until it is clear that the detoxification is complete.

Following detoxification the patient is educated about the different options for on going recovery. These include medications, substance abuse counseling and 12-step meetings.

We have found that the most successful medications to help with long term alcohol recovery includes Naltrexone implants, combined with other anti-craving medications such as Topamax, Campral and Antabuse.

If you, or a loved one, are interested in hearing more about this innovative program please contact our office.