Delirium tremens is typically treated with which medication?

• A. Haloperidol
• B. Chlordiazepoxide
• C. Diazepam
• D. Naltrexone

Answer: (B)

Delirium tremens is an emergency of alcohol withdrawal, and the key treatment goal is to calm the brain and prevent seizures as withdrawal progresses. A long-acting benzodiazepine is favored because it provides steady, ongoing relief from central nervous system hyperactivity and allows a smooth taper as symptoms improve, which helps prevent fluctuations that could lead to seizures or delirium. Chlordiazepoxide fits this approach well, offering lasting relief and enabling controlled dose reduction over time. Diazepam could be used similarly, since it’s also long-acting, but chlordiazepoxide is a common choice in detox protocols for its predictable taper. Haloperidol may help with agitation or hallucinations, but it does not address the underlying withdrawal physiology and can complicate the picture by affecting seizures or delirium risk. Naltrexone is used for relapse prevention after withdrawal, not for treating acute delirium tremens, and it won’t alleviate withdrawal symptoms.