Comparison of phenobarbital-adjunct versus benzodiazepine-only approach for alcohol withdrawal syndrome in the ED.

Objectives: To compare a phenobarbital-adjunct versus benzodiazepine-only approach for the management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome in the emergency department (ED) with regard to the need for intensive care unit (ICU) admission, severity of symptoms on ED discharge, and complications.

Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study conducted in two academic EDs in the United States. Adult patients seen in the ED with a diagnosis of alcohol withdrawal syndrome were included.