Phenobarbital for Alcohol Withdrawal
From Guide to YKHC Medical Practices
Phenobarbital is a barbiturate which was first synthesized in 1911 and was marketed by Bayer as a sedative (originally named Luminal) in 1912. PB's anti-seizure effects were quickly recognized in that same year.
PB is a GABA-agonist which has been known to be effective for treating alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) since 1972.
When PB is used for outpatient treatment of AWS, it should be titrated to effect in a monitored setting. Patients should never be discharged with a supply of oral PB for symptom-triggered dosing.
