Use of vodka to prevent severe alcohol withdrawal

August 3, 2020

Individuals who drink more than 25-30 units of alcohol per day are at high risk of becoming physically dependent on it.  In these circumstances, abrupt reduction or discontinuation of alcohol can lead to the development of a potentially life threatening state of ‘alcohol withdrawal’ (also known as delirium tremens / ‘DTs’). Judicious use of vodka has recently been introduced by the alcohol team as a treatment option to stabilise those at high risk and prevent DTs. Once stabilised the team can work with those who are motivated to change their behaviour and advise them how to safely reduce their alcohol consumption.

The most commonly prescribed treatment for alcohol withdrawal is diazepam.  The importance difference with vodka is that it can PREVENT severe withdrawal from occurring in the first place – whereas diazepam can only treat the symptoms once they occur. SWB is one of the first Trusts in the UK to use alcohol in this way – with vodka now on Unity on prescription.

Decisions to prescribe vodka  can only be made by the alcohol care team and  the Consultant clinical toxicologists. 

Please refer all patients with alcohol misuse issues to the alcohol care team by calling ext. 5074 (or via unity) as soon as alcohol misuse is recognised, as preventing withdrawal from escalating should always be the aim. Out of hours advice is also available from the on call Consultant Clinical Toxicologist (Via Switchboard / rota watch – ‘Poisons consultant’)