A person consumes large quantities of alcohol daily since 20 years.He is physically dependent on alcohol. Drug should be given to this person is:
**Core Concept**
The person is physically dependent on alcohol, a condition known as alcohol withdrawal syndrome. This is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to prevent severe symptoms and complications.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The patient should be given benzodiazepines, specifically chlordiazepoxide, to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines act on the GABA receptors in the brain, enhancing the inhibitory effects of GABA and reducing the excitatory effects of glutamate. This helps to calm the nervous system and alleviate symptoms such as tremors, agitation, and seizures. Chlordiazepoxide is a long-acting benzodiazepine that is commonly used in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not relevant to the treatment of alcohol withdrawal.
**Option B:** While antipsychotics may be used in some cases of alcohol withdrawal, they are not the first-line treatment and may even exacerbate symptoms.
**Option C:** Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin may be used in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal, particularly for preventing seizures, but they are not the primary treatment for managing symptoms.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Benzodiazepines, specifically chlordiazepoxide, are the first-line treatment for managing alcohol withdrawal symptoms. The "Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal (SAW)" mnemonic can help remember the typical symptoms: Seizures, Altered sensorium, Withdrawal, Tremors, Anxiety, and Hallucinations.
**Correct Answer:** C. Chlordiazepoxide