In 20-40% of cases, epileptic fits are linked to withdrawal. Those linked to acute intoxication (drunkenness) only account for 1-2% of convulsive seizures.

The classical causes of epilepsy are head injury, cerebrovascular accidents, certain medications such as anti-tuberculosis drugs and anti-depressants, etc... Approximately 5% of the general population will experience a single epileptic fit in their lifetime, without any identifiable cause.

When a cause of epilepsy is known in an alcoholic, the patient should be prescribed long-term anti-epileptic treatment, under the condition that the patient remains abstinent. Ceasing to take medication combined with alcohol consumption increases the risk of epileptic seizures.