This review on management of withdrawal from alcohol and other drugs aimed to identify: the most effective practices; which withdrawal strategies are most effective in improving treatment outcomes for special population groups; and the differential effects of withdrawal management approaches by setting. The review identified the importance of a ‘package of care’ which includes psychosocial, physical and pharmacological interventions, and these should be incorporated into all withdrawal services. The challenge is to ensure that effective services are available, patient-centred, evidence-based and efficient. The review suggests that a re- examination of the NSW approach is needed with more emphasis on ambulatory withdrawal services. The review also highlights a need for more research into interventions for special populations including older people.
Lintzeris N, Sunjic S, Demirkol A, Branezac M, Ezard N, et al. Management of withdrawal from alcohol and other drugs: an Evidence Check rapid review brokered by the Sax Institute for the NSW Ministry of Health, 2019. doi:10.57022/mjjp9930
