Use of high dose benzodiazepines in alcohol and sedative withdrawal delirium.
The authors describe two patients who required massive doses of benzodiazepines to treat complicated alcohol and sedative withdrawal delirium. Some of the factors that contribute to difficulties in management are discussed. Finally, we describe the advantages and disadvantages of high dose pharmacologic management and controversies regarding psychopharmacologic management of such complex patients.
Kunkel
E J
EJ
Division of General Internal Medicine, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107-5004, USA.
Rodgers
C
C
DeMaria
P A
PA
Holleran
D
D
Zaimes
J
J
Gray
C
C
Zager
R
R
Hall
S M
SM
Field
H L
HL
D000328:Adult; D000430:Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008609:Mental Status Schedule; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D001569:Benzodiazepines