Table. Possible diazepam regimen for home detox based on severity of alcohol dependence * 8.
Mild | Moderate | Severe | Complicated | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Daily standard drinks | 10–14 | 15–25 | 30–40 | >50 |
SADQ score | <16 | 16–30 | >30 | >30 plus medical problems |
Setting | Home | Home | Inpatient services | Inpatient services |
Suggested prescribing regimen – diazepam | ||||
Day 1 | Symptomatic –5 mg 4 times a day when required | 10 mg 4 times a day and 10 mg when required | - | - |
Day 2 | 5 mg 3 times a day | 5 mg 4 times a day | - | - |
Day 3 | 5 mg twice a day | 5 mg 3 times a day | - | - |
Day 4 | 5 mg at night | 5 mg twice a day | - | - |
Day 5 | 5 mg at night | 5 mg at night | - | - |
Day 6 | - | 5 mg at night | - | - |
* As prescribed by the author
SADQ Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire