[Sequential nimodipine-reduced glutathione treatment in alcoholic abstinence syndrome. Preliminary experience]

Alcohol abstinence syndrome (AAS) occurs in alcohol dependent patients a few hours after ceasing to drink, first in the form of gastrointestinal and dysvegetative signs, then with the involvement of neurological functions. The results obtained in 15 patients selected according to DSM III criteria, treated with nimodipine (calcium entry blocker) in the acute phase and with reduced glutathione in the subacute phase are presented. All patients who, during treatment, did not take other drugs, showed a definite, fast improvement in symptoms, especially in neurovegetative symptoms. Administration of nimodipine, which seems capable of reducing the catecholaminergic drive, was very well tolerated. Treatment with reduced glutathione is justified by the fact that the inadequate intake of alcohol is responsible for liver changes and, particularly, for a significant reduction in liver levels of glutathione, a condition that makes the cell more exposed to attack on the part of substances that activate lipoperoxidation processes. The results obtained seem to confirm a protective action on the part of reduced glutathione.