Alcohol Treatment in Atlanta, GA

What is Alcohol (or Xanax) withdrawal?

It is a cluster of symptoms that erupt when a person stops regular heavy alcohol or Xanax ingestion. The symptoms may include tremulousness, anxiety, sweating, rapid heartbeat, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, and weakness. The symptoms may worsen and usually peak by 2-3 days after stopping or reducing the alcohol or Xanax ingestion. The symptoms may progress to hallucinations, disorientation, confusion, paranoia, agitation, seizures, and death.

What can be done to stop the symptoms?

Dr. Darvin Hege uses prescription tranquilizers to replace the alcohol or Xanax to control the symptoms and then taper off the tranquilizers over approximately 3-7 days. The detox tranquilizers are usable addictive medications that are given to a responsible family member or close friend who accompanies you to daily outpatient visits for the first several days. Dr. Hege takes a medical history, records vital signs and does a complete psychiatric assessment on your first visit. This allows Dr. Hege to advise you of the safety and likelihood of safe and successful outpatient detox. If you have serious medical concerns or severe withdrawal, detox must be done in the hospital for your safety.

What can be done to help alcohol cravings and to increase the chances of staying sober?

The most effective approach is a combination of medications and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Medications used include Campral, Naltrexone, and Antabuse. The Naltrexone helps by reducing cravings and reduces the euphoria from alcohol, if you drink while taking the medicine. Campral reduces stress intolerance that alcohol abuse causes. Antabuse discourages people from drinking because it causes severe illness when combined with alcohol.

CBT is available in a variety of forms. A trained therapist can provide CBT during 1:1 therapy. Group therapy with a recovery-focus leader is another format. Free self-help groups such as AA or Rational Recovery is an option. Formal rehab programs include evening IOP (intensive outpatient programs), PHP (all day daily outpatient programs), and inpatient detox and rehab programs.

What are the benefits of having an addictionist who is also a psychiatrist treat me?

At least 50% of patients with substance abuse disorders have a non-addiction, medication-responsive condition present also. Recognition and relief of the coexisting anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD, or other disorder can increase your daily comfort and function, and increase your chances of remaining abstinent.

For treatment of alcohol addiction, call Dr. Hege today for the expertise and relief you need!

Self-Pay Patients--Mention this website for 10% off your first visit!

Darvin Hege MD, PC
2150 Peachford Road, Suite P
Atlanta, GA 30338-6521
770-458-0007
Map and Directions To Dr. Darvin Hege