Outpatient Detoxification of the Alcoholic

Abstract

The safety and effectiveness of outpatient treatment of the patient with the alcohol withdrawal syndrome were studied. Patients (116) were studied: 50% were successfully treated, 20% dropped out of treatment and 30% of patients required hospitalization. There were no serious medical complications. Advantages and disadvantages of outpatient treatment for the alcohol withdrawal syndrome are discussed. Outpatient treatment of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome may be effective for certain alcoholics.