Dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal delirium: a case report.
In this case report, even a moderate dose of dexmedetomidine, a very selective alpha(2)-adrenergic agent, resulted in a rapid response to alcohol withdrawal delirium after the standard treatment. Psychiatrists should be aware of this relatively new drug that provides advantages over clonidine, heavy sedation and secondary restraints. Dexmedetomidine should be further evaluated in the treatment of specific forms of aggressive behavior and complicated withdrawal states.
Rovasalo
Aki
A
Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa, Hyvinkää Hospital, Hyvinkää, Finland. aki.rovasalo@helsinki.fi
Tohmo
Harri
H
Aantaa
Riku
R
Kettunen
Eija
E
Palojoki
Riitta
R
D000430:Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D020927:Dexmedetomidine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003975:Diazepam / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006220:Haloperidol / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013831:Thiamine / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D020927:Dexmedetomidine; D006220:Haloperidol; D003975:Diazepam; D013831:Thiamine