What is benzodiazepine-resistant alcohol withdrawal syndrome (BZD-resistant AWS)?
In some patients, benzodiazepines do not improve symptoms of AWS, which is likely due to GABA-A receptor saturation. Although there is no standard definition, the cited reference suggests that the requirement of greater than 40 mg of diazepam (or equivalent) within 1 h, should be considered BZD-resistant AWS and that these patients may necessitate adjunctive treatment options.
Sarff M, Gold JA. Alcohol withdrawal syndromes in the intensive care unit. Crit Care Med. 2010 Sep;38(9 Suppl):S494-501. doi: 10.1097/CCM.0b013e3181ec5412. PMID: 20724883.
Posted in Question Of The Day