Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) develops in patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and physical dependence after abrupt cessation or substantial reduction of sustained heavy alcohol use. It is common and potentially life-threatening in general medical practice. Characteristic features include tremor, autonomic activation, anxiety, insomnia, perceptual disturbances, seizures, and delirium tremens. This practical review aims to guide internists in early recognition, risk stratification, monitoring, pharmacological treatment, and transition to longitudinal AUD care.
