Which medication is used to prevent symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal?

Lorazepam is the appropriate medication used to prevent symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal. This medication belongs to the class of benzodiazepines, which are primarily utilized for their anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), sedative, and anticonvulsant properties. During alcohol withdrawal, individuals may experience a range of symptoms including anxiety, agitation, tremors, and, in severe cases, seizures. Lorazepam helps to mitigate these symptoms by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), leading to increased inhibitory activity in the brain. This makes it particularly effective in calming withdrawal symptoms and preventing complications such as delirium tremens, a potentially life-threatening condition.

In contrast, while the other medications listed have their own uses, they are not effective for preventing alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Folic acid is a vitamin often supplemented in individuals with alcohol dependence to address deficiencies but does not have any direct effect on withdrawal symptoms. Clonidine is primarily used to manage hypertension and can be used to alleviate some withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and agitation, but it is not the first-line treatment. Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist that helps with alcohol dependence by reducing cravings and preventing relapse, but it does not address