eli5 why can you not just go into a medically-induced coma to avoid the symptoms of withdrawal?

Question

eli5 why can you not just go into a medically-induced coma to avoid the symptoms of withdrawal?

In: 1430

Answer 1

Let’s put it this way: Depending on the procedure, many doctors will actively try to avoid general anesthesia if they can, since if the procedure doesn’t require it then it’s not worth the medical risk even for 15-60 minute procedures.

So when it comes to withdrawals, medically speaking you’re basically OK. Unless it’s severe benzodiazepine or alcohol withdrawal which can actually cause physical issues, withdrawals suck but don’t actually pose any physical danger to the patient, therefore general anesthesia is hard to justify. Especially when talking about being under for multiple *days*, it adds an additional layer of risk and medical challenges.