A multi-centre survey of inpatient pharmacological management strategies for alcohol withdrawal

Background: it is well recognized that alcohol is a growing problem in the UK with significant morbidity and mortality and associated resource implications for the National Health Service (NHS). The inpatient management of alcohol withdrawal is felt to be variable between hospitals. The aim of this study was to assess the variation in pharmacological management and acute inpatient alcohol services across NHS hospitals in the UK. Method: A web-based survey was distributed to Society for Acute Medicine (SAM) members and others with an interest in Acute Medicine between January and March 2008. Results: The results suggest poor utilization of guidelines, variable drug regimens and differences in acute alcohol-related support services. Conclusion: In response to these findings, we suggest that a simplified national approach is required for what is now recognized to be an epidemic problem.