Alcohol Use Disorder: Signs, Withdrawal and Treatment

Alcohol use disorder is a medical condition in which drinking becomes difficult to control despite harmful consequences. It ranges from mild to severe and is not a failure of willpower. Effective treatment can help people reduce drinking, stop drinking and recover.

Possible signs

  • Drinking more or for longer than intended
  • Repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut down
  • Strong cravings or spending substantial time drinking or recovering
  • Problems at work, home, school or in relationships
  • Continuing despite physical, mental or social harm
  • Needing more alcohol for the same effect
  • Withdrawal symptoms when alcohol is reduced

Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous

A person who drinks heavily or has become physically dependent should not suddenly stop without medical advice. Withdrawal may cause sweating, tremor, nausea, anxiety, agitation or insomnia. Severe withdrawal can cause seizures, hallucinations, confusion, fever and delirium and may be life-threatening.

Assessment and treatment

A clinician can assess drinking patterns, withdrawal risk, physical health and mental wellbeing. Treatment is tailored to the individual and may include a medically supervised withdrawal plan, behavioural therapy, medicines such as naltrexone or acamprosate, peer support and treatment of related health conditions. Recovery goals may involve abstinence or, for some people, a clinically supported reduction in harmful drinking.

Taking the first step

Speak honestly with a primary-care clinician or local alcohol service. It can help to record how much and how often you drink, but do not reduce suddenly if withdrawal is possible. Support from trusted family or friends may help, while privacy and personal choice should be respected.

When to seek emergency help

Call emergency services for a seizure, hallucinations, severe confusion, collapse, very slow or irregular breathing, inability to wake, repeated vomiting or suspected alcohol poisoning. Immediate help is also needed if there is a risk of suicide or serious harm.

Sources

Reviewed: 28 August 2026