The patient comes to the emergency department and tells the nurse, "I have been off my drugs for 3 days." The nurse assesses the patient for withdrawal symptoms associated with the category of drug used
Withdrawal from which drug, if taken by the patient, should cause the nurse the most concern?
1. Heroin
2. Alprazolam (Xanax)
3. Cocaine
4. Marijuana
Correct Answer: 2
Rationale: Alprazolam (Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. This drug, which is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, will likely lead to the most life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a patient who has stopped taking it. Withdrawal from heroin is very unpleasant, but it is not life threatening. Withdrawal from cocaine is uncomfortable, but it is not life threatening. There is virtually no withdrawal from marijuana.
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