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Seizure medicines for alcohol abuse and dependence

Seizure medicines are normally used to treat seizures, but they are also used successfully to treat mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms during detoxification from alcohol dependence. Currently, there is good evidence that carbamazepine (for example, Tegretol), valproate (for example, Depakote), and phenytoin (for example, Dilantin) are effective in reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms and emotional distress related to withdrawal.1 Seizure medicines can be used safely over a long period of time.

Side effects of seizure medicines can include:

  • Weight gain.
  • Hair loss.
  • Tremor or shakiness.
  • Birth defects in your fetus if you are pregnant.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

Citations

  1. Kosten TR, O'Connor PG (2003). Management of drug and alcohol withdrawal. New England Journal of Medicine, 348(18): 1786–1795.

Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Paul Lehnert
Editor Roya Camp
Editor Katy E. Magee, MA
Associate Editor Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer James R. McKay, PhD
- Psychology
Last Updated February 15, 2008

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 15, 2008
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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