The scale and speed of the COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating both to patients and healthcare systems globally. This article provides concise and accessible information regarding well known pharmacological treatments for delirium in patients who are COVID+. It draws from the experience from clinicians in Italy, which was the initial epicentre of the outbreak in Europe.
The agents reviewed here provide effects, side effects and interactions with other medications which are commonly used to treat patients, including antiviral agents. In conclusion, clinicians should recognise and treat delirium promptly in COVID+ patients given its potential to alleviate distress in patients, and allow for healthcare systems not to be unduly distracted by patients who present with delirium and agitation.
