What it means
When a person has used alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, nicotine or some other drugs for a long time, the body adjusts to them. Stopping suddenly causes withdrawal, with symptoms that are often the opposite of the drug's effects. Alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal can be life-threatening, with seizures and delirium tremens. The word also means pulling away from people (social withdrawal).
For the nurse
Ask when the client last used the substance. Watch vital signs, tremor, sweating, agitation and confusion, often with a scored tool, and give medicines as ordered. Keep the room calm and use seizure precautions when ordered.
At a glance
| Spanish | abstinencia |
|---|---|
| Also written | withdrawals |
Related terms
tremor
Shaking of a part of the body, such as the hands, in small rhythmic movements that the person cannot control.
substance abuse
An older term for using alcohol or drugs in a harmful way; today it is usually called substance use disorder.
relapse
The return of a disease or its symptoms after a period of improvement, or a return to substance use after a time without it.
substance use
The use of alcohol, tobacco, drugs or medicines not as prescribed; when it causes harm, it is called substance use disorder.
agitation
A state of restlessness and tension with too much movement, often with irritability.