Questions posted in the The Addiction Forum have been answered by Steven Adelman, M.D. and by Richard C. Bozian M.D. F.A.C.P. of Harvard Vanguard Medical Group.

Question Title: Alcohol withdrawal, how long?

Forum: The Addiction Forum
Topic: Alcoholism

After drinking for over 20 years, I decided it was time to stop, began to feel run down and carrying a beer belly. Went to my personal physician who prescribed serax because of anxiety and withdrawal. After 1 month now, I still am slightly anxious and feeling uncomfortable. How long can this withdrawal anxiety last? No physical problems apparent, it was just time to quit BEFORE health problems arose.

First of all, congradulations on your decision to stop your use of alcohol. You've taken a giant step toward regaining your health and self-esteem. Your physician has perscribed Serax for you and that is a generally accepted medication for withdrawal. Serax protocols, however, rarely last beyond five days (depending on the severity of the withdrawal).
Alcohol withdrawal can create or exarcebate a state of anxiety. This is normal and to be expected. It is difficult to diagnose an anxiety disorder while a person is in active withdrawal. We genrally wait until a person is alcohol and Serax free before determining if there are any additional conditions to treat. I'm not sure from your question if you are still on the Serax protocol or not but if you are still somewhat anxious after being off alcohol for one month then perhaps you should make an appointment to see a substance abuse specialist to determine if this is just an early recovery experience for you or if there is an anxiety disorder as well.

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