The management of alcohol withdrawal using chlormethiazole.

Chlormethiazole is an extremely useful and flexible drug for use in the management of acute alcohol withdrawal. It is not a treatment for alcohol abuse and should not be used in this patient group, other than in the withdrawal period, and then for less than 10 days. It is extremely safe when used correctly by practitioners familiar with its properties. Problems can arise, however, if used by practitioners unaware of its limitations and the precautions needed for safe prescribing.