Benzodiazepines (BDZs) is the mainstay for alcohol withdrawal syndrome treatment. They reduce autonomic hyperactivity and may prevent seizures and/or delirium tremens. All BDZs are effective. Initial doses are higher than those used for treating anxiety. Symptom triggered dosing with repeated evaluation utilizing a standardized protocol (e.g. CIWA-Ar 1)) may be more efficacious than fixed-dose schedules 2)
Avoid IM administration (erratic absorption).