Which medication is commonly used to manage alcohol withdrawal in detoxification?

The management of alcohol withdrawal during detoxification often involves the use of antianxiety agents, such as benzodiazepines. These medications are effective in alleviating withdrawal symptoms, which can include anxiety, agitation, tremors, and seizures. Benzodiazepines help to stabilize the central nervous system and reduce the risk of severe withdrawal complications, such as delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening.

Antidepressants are generally utilized for mood disorders rather than addressing withdrawal symptoms. Opioid substitutes, like methadone or buprenorphine, are specific to opioid dependence and are not effective in the management of alcohol withdrawal. Antipsychotics may be used in certain situations, such as for managing severe agitation or psychosis, but they are not the first line of treatment for alcohol withdrawal. Therefore, antianxiety agents are the most appropriate choice for effectively managing symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal during detoxification.