Alcohol use disorders

Alcohol causes end-organ damage in drinkers, and alcohol dependence is associated with poor self-care, complicating chronic disease management. A drinking history and index of suspicion for alcohol misuse is part of comprehensive medical assessment. Identification of hazardous and harmful drinking, and provision of brief advice and/or referral, should occur in all healthcare episodes. In hospital settings, prevention and management of alcohol withdrawal and Wernicke's encephalopathy are key priorities. In ambulatory settings, regular monitoring and feedback is effective for managing many alcohol-dependent patients.