diazepam in alcohol detoxification

Last reviewed 01/2018

Detoxification programme using diazepam

• diazepam can be used as an alternative to chlordiazepoxide and is equally effective in managing withdrawal symptoms. However, unlike chlordiazepoxide it has a street value
  
  in alcohol detoxification use the conversion diazepam 10mgs = chlordiazepoxide 30mg

• diazepam is often used as a first line treatment in other countries, for example, the USA but in the UK use is generally restricted to those who are using benzodiazepines in addition to alcohol, or those who are not able to tolerate withdrawal with chlordiazepoxide
• if clients are already taking diazepam then the dose to be used for detox should be increased by the detox regime amount. A decision as to whether to reduce down to nought (i.e. to detox from alcohol and benzodiazepines) or to the dose of benzodiazepines that was being taken previously should be negotiated with the patient. If the use of benzodiazepines by the patient is high and/or forms part of a pattern of poly-substance misuse, inpatient management should be considered

Reference:

• 1) SMMGP (February 2010). Network;28:12-14.