But sometimes the negative occurrences can serve as a catalyst for getting the alcoholic into treatment. More usually, an ultimatum from the spouse or other family member, boss, doctor, or judge is the driving force. McCrory sought treatment after his wife, son and daughter told him he needed help. I never want to go through that again. This can be done in the hospital or on an outpatient basis and usually lasts one to seven days.
Some doctors also prescribe other drugs in the same chemical class, also approved to treat anxiety.
These drugs help decrease the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, including anxiety and tremors, and reduce the risk of serious consequences of withdrawal, such as seizure and delirium. Dosages are based on the severity of patients' symptoms. Use of these drugs beyond the withdrawal phase is not advised for alcoholics because of the drugs' abuse potential and alcoholics' addictive inclination. Because heavy drinking often results in nutritional deficiencies, vitamins, particularly thiamin and other B vitamins, also may be given. Once sober, patients can begin rehabilitation.