What is the preferred treatment for alcohol overdose?

The preferred treatment for alcohol overdose primarily focuses on managing the acute effects of alcohol intoxication and supporting the individual until the alcohol is metabolized. While there are various interventions that may be considered in different contexts, benzodiazepines are commonly used to manage potentially severe symptoms, such as agitation or seizures, which can arise from alcohol overdose or withdrawal.

In the case of naltrexone, it is primarily indicated for the treatment of alcohol dependence rather than for acute overdose situations. Naltrexone works by blocking opioid receptors, potentially decreasing the rewarding effects of alcohol and reducing cravings over the long term. However, it does not directly treat the acute physiological effects of an alcohol overdose, which primarily involve central nervous system depression.

Atropine is used to treat bradycardia and can have applications in various toxicological scenarios, but it is not relevant in the context of alcohol overdose. Physostigmine is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that can be utilized in cases of anticholinergic toxicity but is not indicated for alcohol-induced conditions.

Thus, in an acute setting where imminent respiratory distress or significant sedation from alcohol is present, supportive care, often involving monitoring, intravenous fluids, and possibly benzodiazepines for symptom management, is considered