Nimodipine in acute alcohol withdrawal state

doi:10.1016/0022-3956(92)90003-7

Journal of Psychiatric Research

Volume 26, Issue 2, April 1992, Pages 117-123

https://doi.org/10.1016/0022-3956(92)90003-7 Get rights and content

Abstract

The effect of the calcium channel blocker, nimodipine, in acute alcohol withdrawal was investigated in a randomized, placebo controlled, double blind study. Thirty-two male patients with a history of alcohol dependence according to DSM-III criteria, but no other substance abuse, were included. A new rating instrument which fulfilled theoretical test criteria was applied to determine the severity of the alcohol withdrawal state. The patients received nimodipine or a placebo on four separate occasions (4∗x60mg) and, in addition, clomethiazole, according to a standardized procedure. Our investigation has shown that, in the first 48–72 h of alcohol withdrawal, both groups consumed similar amounts of additional clomethiazole medication. Thus, no significant effect of nimodipine on the acute alcohol withdrawal state could be demonstrated. There was some tendency for nimodipine to ameliorate psychosensory dysfunction.

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Nimodipine in acute alcohol withdrawal state

Abstract

Psychoneuroendocrinology

Neuropharmacology

Life Sciences

Brain Research

Mayo Clinical Proceedings

Electroencephalography and Clinical Neurophysiology

Imbalance of neuronal excitability as a cause of psychic disorder

Pharmacopsychiatry