The fear and despair that comes with Alcohol and prescription drug dependence is astonishing. The situation is even more frightening when you realize that you can’t continue as you have been but quitting could mean sudden death.
Alcohol and Benzodiazepines are known to cause severe, painful and even potentially deadly withdrawal symptoms. Seizures, which can result in sudden death, are common enough when detoxing off these substances to avoid detoxing yourself along at home.
Everyone planning to quit drinking or using Benzodiazepines needs to find a detox center equipped to handle severe detox symptoms should they arise.
Some detox centers use a Phenobarbital taper to alleviate the severity and discomfort associated with Alcohol and Benzodiazepine withdrawal. Benzodiazepines and Phenobarbital are used to treat the withdrawal symptoms associated with Alcohol. Some respond better to one or the other. Studies have shown that a Phenobarbital taper prevents seizures and other nasty withdrawal symptoms, proving to be effective and safe overall.
The taper of Phenobarbital typically lasts a matter of days, during which the most severe symptoms of withdrawal are known to occur. Sedation is the most common side effect of Phenobarbital, which is welcome compared to life-threatening seizures.
Below is a list of addiction treatment centers that provide access to a Phenobarbital taper.