A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing manifestations of alcohol withdrawal. Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to administer?

Choice A reason: Bupropion is an antidepressant commonly used for major depressive disorder and smoking cessation. It is not indicated for alcohol withdrawal management. In fact, bupropion lowers the seizure threshold, which could worsen withdrawal complications since alcohol withdrawal itself predisposes clients to seizures. Therefore, this medication would be unsafe and inappropriate in this context. Choice B reason: Methadone is an opioid agonist used primarily for opioid use disorder and pain management. It is not effective for alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Administering methadone would not address the autonomic hyperactivity, tremors, or risk of seizures associated with alcohol withdrawal. Its use here would be clinically inappropriate. Choice C reason: Lorazepam, a benzodiazepine, is the correct medication for alcohol withdrawal. Benzodiazepines act on GABA receptors to reduce central nervous system hyperexcitability caused by abrupt cessation of alcohol. They help prevent seizures, reduce tremors, anxiety, and agitation, and lower the risk of delirium tremens. Lorazepam is often preferred because of its intermediate half-life and predictable metabolism, making it safe for clients with potential liver impairment. Choice D reason: Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic used for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. It has no role in alcohol withdrawal management. Clozapine carries risks such as agranulocytosis and seizures, which would further complicate withdrawal. Thus, it is not an appropriate choice in this scenario.