Authors' recommendations: There is a lack of primary studies evaluating the clinical efficacy of antipsychotics and benzodiazepines for rapid tranquilization of inpatients of mental facilities and ED. In the available literature, both benzodiazepines and antipsychotics seem to be effective in mediating the symptoms of agitation and/or aggression. Guidelines and clinical practice vary on the choice of drugs used for rapid tranquilization in mental facilities and the ED, with some recommendations largely based on consensus statements and observational data. From the literature, it seems that where rapid tranquilization is needed, a combination of an IM antipsychotic (haloperidol) and an IM benzodiazepine (lorazepam) are recommended. Consideration of other agents such as olanzapine and risperidone were also reported. The limited available data on the use of antipsychotics and/or benzodiazepines for rapid tranquilization may be a consideration for decision-making.

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.cadth.ca/media/pdf/htis/L%200167%20Antipsychotics%20for%20Rapid%20Tranquilization%20final.pdf

Year Published: 2010

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health

Contact Address: 600-865 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1S 5S8 Canada. Tel: +1 613 226 2553; Fax: +1 613 226 5392;

Contact Name: requests@cadth.ca

Contact Email: requests@cadth.ca

Copyright: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)