Management of withdrawal syndromes and relapse prevention in drug and alcohol dependence

Abstract

The primary care physician is in a good position to diagnose, manage and intervene with patients who are undergoing the process of treatment and recovery from alcohol and drug disorders. Medications such as benzodiazepines are effective in the treatment of withdrawal syndromes, and naltrexone and disulfiram can be used to augment relapse prevention. Patients may also participate in psychosocial methods of addiction treatment that can reduce the risk of relapse and improve their psychosocial, health, legal and employment status.