Sleep (PRN)
| Generic | Brand | Route | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zolpidem | Stilnox | PO | 5–10 mg nocte | Z-drug; short-term only |
| Melatonin | — | PO | 2 mg nocte | Preferred in elderly / delirium risk |
Acute agitation / sedation
| Generic | Brand | Route | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haloperidol | Haldol | PO / IM / IV | 0.5–2 mg, repeat cautiously | Delirium / agitation; QT, EPS; avoid in Parkinson’s / Lewy body |
| Lorazepam | Ativan | PO / IM / IV | 0.5–1 mg | Agitation, alcohol withdrawal, seizures |
| Diazepam | Valium | PO / IV / PR | 2–10 mg | Seizures, alcohol withdrawal; long-acting |
| Midazolam | Dormicum | IV / IM / buccal | 2–5 mg IV titrated; 10 mg buccal | Short-acting; respiratory depression — monitor |
Try verbal de-escalation and treat the cause of delirium first. Use the lowest effective dose; benzodiazepines can worsen delirium (reserve for alcohol/benzo withdrawal or seizures).
Educational reference for clinicians. Doses are typical adult starting points — cross-check current local policy, the formulary, and renal/hepatic function before prescribing. Last reviewed: July 2026.
Last reviewed · July 2026