Comparison of Efficacy of an Outpatient vs Inpatient Detoxification Program for Alcohol Dependent Patients Seeking Abstinence. A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial.
Comparison of Efficacy of an Outpatient vs Inpatient Detoxification Program for Alcohol Dependent Patients Seeking Abstinence. A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial.
Detoxification, in an inpatient or outpatient program, is the primary and essential step for managing alcohol dependence. The superiority of one or other method of detoxification has never been proved in several previous randomized clinical trials (RCT). The aim of this multicenter RCT was to compare efficiency, on the abstinence rate as the primary outcome, at 1 and 3 months follow-up of two alcohol detoxification programs (a 5/7-days inpatient detox vs. an ambulatory detox).
Among patients consulting in 4 alcohol treatment centers in France seeking treatment for withdrawal, we included those who met criteria for current alcohol-dependence (DSM IV) and having drinking during the past three days before randomization. Exclusion criteria were: patients' refusal of one or other method, contraindication for outpatient detoxification method (history of DELIRIUM TREMENS or withdrawal seizures), homelessness, Major Depressive Episode assessed by MADRS > 25, current Substance Abuse Disorder (except nicotine), indication for hospitalization (severe somatic disorder), judicial injunction, family crisis, patients seeking antabuse treatment.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria: