Question

A 52-year-old man drinks 15-20 units of alcohol daily and presents 12 hours after his last drink with tremor, sweating and anxiety. Vital signs show HR 110/min and BP 150/92 mm Hg. There is no confusion or hallucination. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Start a symptom-triggered benzodiazepine regimen using a validated withdrawal scale

Answer

Start haloperidol monotherapy

Answer

Use beta-blockers alone to control autonomic symptoms

Answer

Discharge with advice to cut down gradually at home

Answer

Admit to ICU and start propofol infusion

Practice question

A 52-year-old man drinks 15-20 units of alcohol daily and presents 12 hours after his last drink with tremor, sweating and anxiety. Vital signs show HR 110/min and BP 150/92 mm Hg. There is no confusion or hallucination. What is the most appropriate initial management?