Updated6 October 2026
Reading timeAbout 1 min
EvidenceNHS / NICE anchored
Clinical reviewPending
Key point
Alcohol and some sedative medicines can cause dangerous withdrawal in people who are physically dependent. If this may apply to you, arrange clinical advice first.You can use the sections below to go deeper, or jump using “On this page”.
Before you stop suddenly
Alcohol and some sedative medicines can cause dangerous withdrawal in people who are physically dependent. If this may apply to you, arrange clinical advice first.
Today
Assess the risk
Think about withdrawal symptoms, daily use, previous seizures or severe withdrawal, other medicines and physical health.
Next
Build support around the change
Plan professional treatment, practical support, trigger management and what to do during cravings.
Later
Protect the progress
Recovery needs more than the first few days. Build routines, treatment and relapse-prevention strategies around the change.