delirium tremens
Last reviewed 01/2018
Delerium tremens is a medical emergency. It is an acute confusional state associated with tremor and autonomic dysfunction.
The essential feature, as defined by DSM-IIIR, is that it develops within one week following the cessation of heavy ingestion of alcohol or a reduction in the amount of alcohol ingested.
Treatment for delirium tremens or seizures
- offer oral lorazepam as first-line treatment for delirium tremens. If symptoms persist or oral medication is declined, give parenteral lorazepam, haloperidol or olanzapine
- for people with alcohol withdrawal seizures, consider offering a quick-acting benzodiazepine (such as lorazepam) to reduce the likelihood of further seizures
- if delirium tremens or seizures develop in a person during treatment for alcohol withdrawal, review their withdrawal drug treatment
- do not offer phenytoin to treat alcohol withdrawal seizures
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