Delirium (Substance/Medication-induced)

Substance- or medication-induced delirium occurs when psychoactive substances, prescription medications, or withdrawal states precipitate acute cognitive dysfunction. Etiologies include alcohol, sedatives, opioids, anticholinergics, and polypharmacy interactions. Clinically, patients present with abrupt onset of confusion, inattention, disorientation, perceptual disturbances, and fluctuating arousal. Diagnosis involves establishing a temporal relationship between substance exposure and symptom onset while ruling out primary medical or psychiatric causes. Management requires cessation or adjustment of the causative agent, supportive care, and targeted pharmacologic interventions when necessary. Prognosis is generally favorable if the underlying agent is promptly discontinued and supportive measures are implemented.