Withdrawal delirium is an uncommon, serious
complication of alcohol withdrawal that is best
treated with intravenous benzodiazepines. All the
doses described in this review are approximations
based on uncontrolled studies. Data on the
most effective care for patients with withdrawal
delirium are lacking. Since the low potential of
profit from this research may undercut interest from pharmaceutical companies, treatment trials
sponsored by the National Institutes of Health are
warranted.