Managing Alcohol Withdrawal with Phenobarbital

The chapter explores the benefits of using phenobarbital over benzodiazepines in treating alcohol withdrawal, emphasizing its predictability in dosing, prolonged half-life, and minimal sedative effects. It highlights the risks associated with benzodiazepines, such as paradoxical agitation and propylene glycol intoxication, making phenobarbital a safer and cost-effective option. The discussion also includes guidelines for administering phenobarbital in patients with hepatic encephalopathy and transitioning to alternative treatments for non-alcohol related delirium states.