ABSTRACT
Give a long-acting benzodiazepine in a tapered regimen as follows:
!!These are only suggested initial average regimensRequirements vary considerably with severity of symptoms and previous experience of or tolerance to benzodiazepines. Regular dose review and prescription of prn doses is essential. Some patients may require a longer stabilisation period before starting to reduce doses. Ideal regimens involve an initial 24-h assessment of prn doses, but require adequate training and time of staff to monitor closely and ensure no under-(or over-) treatment occurs. Start with dose of 2040 mg chlordiazepoxide or 1020 mg diazepam and add up doses used in 1st 24 h, then reduce by 1/5th (1/7th) per day for 5(7) days.
