Delirium tremens (DTs) is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in people who have a history of heavy alcohol consumption and who suddenly stop drinking or significantly reduce their alcohol intake. However, certain medications can also cause a similar condition known as drug-induced delirium tremens.
Drug-induced delirium tremens is usually caused by medications that affect the central nervous system, such as benzodiazepines, opioids, and sedatives. These medications can alter the balance of chemicals in the brain, leading to symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, agitation, and hallucinations.
The symptoms of drug-induced delirium tremens can vary depending on the individual and the specific medication being used. However, some common symptoms include:
• Confusion and disorientation
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there)
• Agitation and restlessness
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Sweating and tremors
• Seizures (in severe cases)
List Of Drugs That Can Cause Delirium Tremens
Several medications can induce delirium tremens. Here is a list of drugs that can cause drug-induced delirium tremens:
1. Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are a class of medications that are commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. However, long-term use or abuse of benzodiazepines can lead to physical dependence, and sudden withdrawal can cause delirium tremens. Examples of benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan).
2. Opioids: Opioids are a class of medications that are commonly used to treat pain. Like benzodiazepines, long-term use or abuse of opioids can lead to physical dependence, and sudden withdrawal can cause delirium tremens. Examples of opioids include morphine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone.
3. Sedatives and hypnotics: Sedatives and hypnotics are a class of medications that are commonly used to treat insomnia and anxiety. However, long-term use or abuse of these medications can lead to physical dependence, and sudden withdrawal can cause delirium tremens. Examples of sedatives and hypnotics include zolpidem (Ambien), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and barbiturates.
4.     Alcohol: Alcohol is not a medication, but it is worth noting that sudden withdrawal from alcohol can also cause delirium tremens. Heavy alcohol consumption can lead to physical dependence, and sudden cessation or significant reduction of alcohol intake can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, including delirium tremens.
5.     Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), can cause delirium tremens in some individuals. These medications can affect the balance of chemicals in the brain, leading to symptoms such as confusion, agitation, and hallucinations.
The incidence of drug-induced delirium tremens is not well-established, as it depends on various factors such as the medication, dosage, duration of use, and the patient’s individual risk factors. However, drug-induced delirium tremens is generally considered to be a relatively rare occurrence, as it usually only occurs in individuals who have a history of heavy use or abuse of the medication, or who are taking the medication inappropriately.
For example, the risk of developing delirium tremens as a result of benzodiazepine withdrawal is estimated to be between 1% and 10% in individuals who have been using benzodiazepines for more than six months, and who suddenly stop taking them. The risk of developing delirium tremens from opioid withdrawal is generally considered to be lower than that of benzodiazepines, but the risk increases with higher doses and longer durations of use.
It is important to note that while these medications can cause delirium tremens, the risk is relatively low and usually occurs only in individuals who have a history of heavy use or abuse of these drugs or who are taking them inappropriately. If a patient experiences any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking medications, they should seek medical attention immediately.
How To Prevent Drug-Induced Delirium Tremens
The best way to prevent drug-induced delirium tremens is to use medications as directed by a healthcare provider, and to follow any instructions for tapering off or discontinuing medications that have a risk of causing delirium tremens. Here are some additional tips to prevent drug-induced delirium tremens:
1. Follow medication instructions: Always use medications as directed by a healthcare provider, and never take more than the prescribed dose. If you have any questions about your medications, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
2.     Do not abruptly stop taking medications: Some medications, such as benzodiazepines and opioids, can cause physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms if they are stopped abruptly. If you need to stop taking these medications, your healthcare provider will provide instructions for tapering off the medication gradually to minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
3. Avoid combining medications: Some medications can interact with each other and increase the risk of delirium tremens. Make sure your healthcare provider is aware of all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal remedies.
4. Address underlying conditions: If you have an underlying condition, such as anxiety or insomnia, that requires medication, work with your healthcare provider to address the underlying condition and develop a treatment plan that minimizes the risk of delirium tremens.
5. Avoid alcohol and illicit drugs: Alcohol and illicit drugs can increase the risk of delirium tremens and can also interact with medications. Avoid alcohol and illicit drugs, and seek treatment for substance abuse if necessary.
If you are taking medications that have a risk of causing delirium tremens, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of delirium tremens, which may include confusion, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, and other symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
