Original Research Prim Care Companion CNS Disord May 2026

Lorazepam Versus Diazepam in Alcohol Dependence Syndrome: Which Is Better?

PCC CNS Disord 2026;28(3):10.4088/PCC.25m04143

Full Article Read the complete peer-reviewed article in Prim Care Companion CNS Disord. Clinical Summary Choosing a benzodiazepine for alcohol withdrawal often comes down to habit, even though clinicians must balance symptom control, hepatic considerations, and co-occurring anxiety or depressive symptoms. This study directly compares lorazepam and diazepam in a symptom-triggered detoxification protocol and asks the practical question clinicians face on the ward: does either drug work better in moderate alcohol withdrawal? FAQ Is lorazepam better than diazepam for alcohol withdrawal?

Key Takeaways This randomized comparison was limited to relatively uncomplicated withdrawal: male inpatients aged ≥25 years with CIWA-Ar score <15, excluding epilepsy, past complicated withdrawals, active psychosis, acute medical or surgical illness, and active suicidality, so the findings are most applicable to moderate-severity detoxification rather than high-risk withdrawal. Clinical Guide How should clinicians carry out a symptom-triggered lorazepam or diazepam detoxification protocol for patients with relatively uncomplicated alcohol dependence syndrome withdrawal?