Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment
- Clinicians should recommend inpatient alcohol withdrawal management for pregnant patients with or at risk for moderate, severe, or complicated alcohol withdrawal [Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol, revised (CIWA-Ar) scores ≥10], and consult with an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN). (A3)
- Clinicians should use caution when prescribing a benzodiazepine medication for pregnant patients. (B3)
- Clinicians should advise pregnant patients who use alcohol to abstain from or minimize use during pregnancy and minimize use during breastfeeding to prevent harm to the developing fetus or infant. (A2)
- Clinicians should provide harm reduction counseling to help minimize the effects of alcohol on the patient and the fetus. (A3)
- If a pregnant individual cannot decrease or cease alcohol use, the clinician should discuss pharmacotherapy for AUD as a harm reduction approach and engage the patient in shared decision-making regarding its use. (B3)
- If a patient becomes pregnant while taking pharmacologic medication for AUD or requests medication during pregnancy, clinicians should inform them of the risks and benefits of preferred agents during pregnancy and breastfeeding. (A3)
- Clinicians should identify and inform patients with AUD and risky alcohol use about available support or behavioral treatment options and provide these options or refer as indicated. (A3)
