During detoxification from alcohol withdrawal, lorazepam is used primarily to achieve which goal?

Lorazepam is primarily utilized in the context of alcohol withdrawal to reduce the anxiety tremor state and to prevent more serious withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures or delirium tremens. During alcohol withdrawal, patients often experience a range of symptoms that can include anxiety, tremors, sweating, nausea, and, in severe cases, seizures. Lorazepam, which is a benzodiazepine, acts as a central nervous system depressant, helping to provide sedation and anxiolytic effects.

By alleviating anxiety and tremors, lorazepam helps to stabilize the patient's condition and can prevent the progression to more severe symptoms associated with withdrawal. This makes it a critical component of management during detoxification, allowing for a safer and more comfortable recovery process.

In contrast, hydration, weight gain, and appetite stimulation are not primary goals of using lorazepam in this context. While maintaining adequate hydration is important during withdrawal, it is not the function of lorazepam. Similarly, promoting weight gain or stimulating appetite are not relevant to the mechanism by which lorazepam serves its purpose during the detoxification process.