Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines

  • AVOID if possible
  • Prolonged sedation, paradoxical agitation, respiratory depression, and worsening delirium
  • If chronically on benzodiazepines, do not stop them
  • Preferred in alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal

Dose:

0.25–0.5 mg lorazepam PO, IV, or IM

References

Lonergan E, Luxenberg J, Areosa Sastre A. Benzodiazepines for delirium. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2009(4):CD006379