查看文章

Background: The primary management of alcohol withdrawal involves the administration of a γ-aminobutyric acid agonist, such as benzodiazepines, for management of symptoms and to prevent further progression to seizure or delirium tremens. Despite escalating doses of benzodiazepines, published literature indicates that some patient’s alcohol withdrawal syndrome symptoms do not respond, and that the use of adjunctive agents may be beneficial in these patients. Dexmedetomidine, an α₂-agonist, serves as a potential adjunctive agent through management of associated autonomic symptoms. Understanding of recent literature evaluating its use is necessary for appropriate selection. Objective: To review available literature supporting the use of adjunctive dexmedetomidine for management of severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Methods: A total of 13 published articles evaluating the efficacy and safety of …