Box 1.

High-risk patients who should be considered for admission to hospital for medically assisted withdrawal from alcohol.

> History of seizures or delirium tremens during previous attendances/admissions.

> Significant or multiple comorbidities eg severe chronic depression, psychosis, unstable angina, heart failure, chronic liver or renal disease, malnutrition

> Significant learning difficulties or cognitive impairment

> Inadequate social support

> Age <18 years

> Older persons particularly if also frail

> Pregnant women

> Homeless persons