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It simply reflects the sedative effect of alcohol on the brain pathways so that he is not able to respond to normal stimuli.View Thread

If you mean long-term maintenance (substitution), then methadone is the safest choice.
Buprenorphine has been associated with liver injury (mechanism unkown) and should be used with caution if long-term.
If treatment means abstinence with initial detox, our standard protocols are Buprenorphine, Clonidine and sedatives - again, used with caution.View Thread

The symptoms may last longer than the acute consequences of withdrawal. There are prescription antispasmodics, antidiarrheals, etc. that are not 'narcotics', which can help with symptoms.View Thread

It's equally disturbing to consider your friend's abuse of Benadryl (far above prescribed doses,) which can have a toxicity which includes cardiac and other organ effects.
Neither choice is wise - it's a matter of 'picking your poison.'View Thread


Tramadol can certainly be 'detoxed' in an outpatient setting in most situations.
I wish you well.View Thread


Your description of not 'knowing' how to stop indicates a lack of control which is very suggestive of the diagnosis of dependence. Two automobile-related incidents and your feelings of shame and guilt are also strong indicators.
However, to establish a definitive diagnosis (abuse vs. dependence) would require a more detailed history obtained by a professional.
Either way, you need to seek help. I wish you well.
View Thread


By bombarding the brain centers with a dose of a chemical many times what it was 'designed' to receive, changes occur.
The brain centers 'adapt' and come to 'expect' this onslaught.
The bad feelings when you do not take your drug are basically withdrawal. It is these changes that lead to dependence - addiction.View Thread
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