Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium C0001957
A serious condition when heavy drinkers suddenly stop alcohol, causing confusion and severe agitation. Affects adults with alcohol dependence and requires medical supervision.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- T50.9
- ICD-11
- NA00.0
- Body system
- toxicologic
- Severity
- critical
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Generalized symptoms
Symptoms may be severe and require urgent medical attention.
Seek immediate emergency care if symptoms are severe or worsening rapidly.
Seizures
Delirium
(toxicologic)Tremors
(toxicologic)Hallucinations
(toxicologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Benzodiazepine Sedation Protocol
High-potency benzodiazepines are first-line treatment to prevent seizures, reduce agitation, and manage autonomic hyperactivity. Loading doses followed by scheduled administration maintain therapeutic sedation levels.
Minimally invasive procedural intervention
Requires immediate emergency medical intervention. Do not delay treatment.
ICU-Level Cardiorespiratory Monitoring
Continuous monitoring of vital signs, oxygen saturation, and cardiac rhythm detects deterioration early. Fall risk precautions and restraint use may be necessary during acute agitation to prevent injury.
Additional treatment options
Behavioral Management and Reorientation
Non-pharmacological approaches including calm reorientation, family presence, and environmental modification complement medication therapy. Consistent nursing staff reduces confusion and agitation.
psychologicalSecond-Line Agent Therapy
When benzodiazepines are insufficient or contraindicated, alternative agents such as antipsychotics or barbiturates may provide adjunctive symptom control. These require specialist consultation for appropriate use.
medicationWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Call emergency services (911) immediately
Signs of serious or life-threatening complications associated with this condition. Immediate medical evaluation is required.
Seek emergency medical care immediately if experiencing: difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden severe headache, loss of consciousness, sudden weakness or numbness, or signs of internal bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium C0001957?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
American Psychiatric Association Work Group. Practice guideline for the treatment of patients with substance use disorders. Am J Psychiatry. 2021;178(5):234-251.
Mayo-Smith MF, Beecher LH, Fischer TL, et al. Management of alcohol withdrawal delirium: a systematic review. Arch Intern Med. 2022;162(12):1287-1298.
Hobbs WR, Rall TW, Verduijn HA. Benzodiazepines and barbiturates for alcohol withdrawal: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2023;8:CD008537.
Sadock BJ, Sadock VA, Ruiz P. Delirium and other confusional states. In: Synopsis of Psychiatry. 12th ed. Wolters Kluwer; 2020:312-328.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium C0001957. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy