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Alcohol - problem drinking - Management
What advice should I give to a person who is dependent on alcohol?
- After alcohol dependence has been identified, and the decision has been made to refer a person to specialist services or to undergo assisted withdrawal in primary care, advise the person to:
- Reduce their alcohol consumption (if possible to safer levels), but avoid sudden withdrawal from alcohol until a withdrawal plan is put in place by specialist services (especially in people with severe dependence).
- Be aware that driving restrictions may apply; make sure that the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is contacted.
- Avoid certain medications.
- Alcohol-related problems may make the use of certain drugs inadvisable (for example do not prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or warfarin in people with hepatic varices).
- Avoid using machinery, swimming, and looking after young children when intoxicated.
- The person should inform their employer if there is going to be a potential problem. This can be very difficult due to shame, fear of stigmatization, or concerns about loss of work. If required, help the person to discuss their problems with alcohol with their employer.
- Involve family, friends, and carers with the diagnosis and treatment process.
- Consider giving the person contact details of mutual-aid groups (for example Alcoholics Anonymous), and provide written information where appropriate.
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