Alcohol: Cut Down. Stop. Stay Stopped. by J.S. McInally - HTML preview
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Medical Safety Information
Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous.
This book is educational and informational. It’s here to help you understand alcohol use disorder and give you practical tools for cutting down, stopping and staying stopped.
It is not a replacement for medical or psychiatric care. Although this book discusses medications, vitamins, and supplements that can help, it’s always advisable to get a review of your health or medications before starting any new medication or supplement. Any information in this guide is intended to be helpful, so please always seek medical help, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are suffering alcohol withdrawal.
WARNING: Do not try to push through severe alcohol withdrawal alone
Stopping suddenly can be life-threatening
For some people, stopping alcohol suddenly can cause serious withdrawal symptoms. In severe cases, alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening. If you are physically dependent on alcohol, you may need medical detox support, which can include monitoring and prescribed medication.
Get urgent medical help immediately (see Emergency Medical Help section below) if you or someone you’re supporting has any of the following:
- seizures (fits)
- hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
- severe confusion, agitation, disorientation
- uncontrolled shaking and sweating
- chest pain
- severe vomiting and dehydration
- very high temperature
- symptoms of delirium tremens (DTs)
If you’re in immediate danger, call emergency services. If you’re unsure, get advice.
If you’re not sure whether it’s safe for you to stop suddenly, speak to a doctor, addiction service or a medical professional. It is always better to err on the side of caution with alcohol withdrawal.
There is also a section in the book titled Appendix C: Medications to Support AUD Recovery, which offers helpful information on different types of medical and pharmacological support for recovery.
Emergency medical help
If you need urgent medical help for AUD (or any other condition that’s life-threatening), please dial emergency services.
- United States – 911
- European Union (all member states) – 112
- United Kingdom – 999 (or 112)
- South Africa – 10177 (or 112 on mobile)
- Canada – 911
- Australia – 000 (or 112 on mobile)
- New Zealand – 111
Emergency numbers vary by country. If you are unsure, contact your local emergency services or medical provider.