title: Delirium tremens.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The hyperadrenergic syndrome, delirium tremens, as contrasted with tile milder alcohol withdrawal syndromes, is a medical emergency. The clinical features of delirium tremens were carefully described almost 200 years ago. Since then, many therapies have been suggested as superior to preceding therapeutic approaches. Unfortunately, morbidity and mortality remain relatively unchanged for the last 100 years.
  
  
  METHODS
  Using a literature review, we review the history of delirium tremens, including the suggested therapeutic approaches.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  We recommend a rational approach to management and therapy, based on present knowledge.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmacy, Medical College of Georgia Hospital and Clinics, Augusta 30912, USA.
authors.forename: W E
authors.initials: WE
authors.lastname: Erwin
authors.forename: D B
authors.initials: DB
authors.lastname: Williams
authors.forename: W A
authors.initials: WA
authors.lastname: Speir
mesh_terms: D000430:Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy*; D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D004630:Emergencies; D006801:Humans
chemical_list: D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D001569:Benzodiazepines