Because he is a member of a support group that stresses the importance of anonymity at the public level, he does not use his photograph or his real name on this website. One of the keys to a successful taper is taking gradual steps that will cause as few side effects as possible. “There are people who don’t want to drink, people who shouldn’t drink, there are people who can’t drink because of the effects that it has interacting with their meds,” Koob says.
Your Guide to Tapering Off Alcohol
Adjusting the tapering schedule to the individual’s needs is also crucial. If severe withdrawal symptoms are experienced, the plan may need to be modified to ensure safety and comfort. Setting realistic goals and rewarding progress can help maintain motivation throughout the tapering journey. Consistency is key; a successful taper involves a clear, structured plan with set goals and intervals for reducing alcohol consumption. Some individuals may benefit from setting rewards for reaching these goals to maintain motivation.
Does Your Alcohol Tolerance Go Down if You Stop Drinking?
Each person’s alcohol metabolism is different, and even though a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .085 is considered legal intoxication, a BAC lower than .08 may adversely affect some people. Replacing alcoholic beverages with non-alcohol drinks is a great method of helping during a taper. By substituting alcoholic drinks for non-alcoholic drinks, you can still engage in most of your habit without getting the alcohol that makes it addictive. This can taper you off alcohol while still helping you keep up with your normal drinking routine, making the process easier. Before you begin an alcohol taper, a little preparation can go a long way, especially when it involves handling your triggers and tracking how much you drink.
Detox Programs That Help With Alcohol Withdrawal
Medications such as benzodiazepines are often used to manage symptoms, while adjunctive medications like gabapentin and valproate may be employed to address persistent withdrawal symptoms. You may be able to detox at home and still attend outpatient therapy or support group meetings. The brain compensates for the depressive effects of alcohol by increasing its activity. If you’re addicted to alcohol, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to recover without some form of addiction treatment. You may be able to detox at home and recover from alcoholism with the help of support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous. However, medically supervised detox and professional rehab are more likely to help you maintain long-term sobriety.
- Alcohol tapering is a medically guided strategy for managing alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
- This can cause seizures and delirium tremens, a severe form of withdrawal marked by tremors and hallucinations.
- For many other drugs, tapering is actually a standard treatment during medical detox.
- If you’re keeping up with this average (or less), the damage from alcohol is most likely minimal.
It is sometimes possible to taper your alcohol use at home if your AUD isn’t severe. Although, you’ll need support if you want to successfully and safely taper at home. Talk to your doctor or a drug treatment specialist about what to expect as you experience alcohol withdrawal.
This could include engaging in new hobbies, exercising, or seeking support from friends, family, or support groups. Additionally, understanding and avoiding personal triggers can help prevent relapse. Staying hydrated and https://thewashingtondigest.com/top-5-advantages-of-staying-in-a-sober-living-house/ maintaining proper nutrition is also vital, as alcohol withdrawal can lead to dehydration and nutrient imbalances. This schedule is a guideline and should be adjusted based on individual needs and responses to tapering.
Depending on the extent of liver damage you have, you may need to completely abstain from alcohol in order to give your liver the best chance for recovery. Talk to a doctor about your personal history and what’s right for you. If you or someone you know needs help detoxing from alcohol, The Recovery Village Ridgefield Drug and Alcohol Rehab is here for you. Contact us today to speak with a representative and begin on the road to lasting addiction recovery. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms consistent with DTs, call 911.
You Have a High Risk of Addiction or Complications From Drinking
This is because Delirium tremens is caused by hyperactivity in the nervous system, which is now without the depressant effects of alcohol and is instead going into overdrive. Top 5 Advantages of Staying in a Sober Living House One of the biggest red flags is impaired social and occupational functioning, Koob says. When these add up, it’s likely time to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol.