Antipsychotic Dosage in Delirium

Level of Agitation Haloperidol Risperidone* Olanzapine Quetiapine
Mild 0.5 - 2 mg/d 0.5 - 1 mg/d 2.5 - 5 mg/d 25 - 50 mg bid
Moderate 2 - 5 mg/d 1 - 3 mg/d 5 - 10 mg/d 50 - 150 mg bid
Severe 5 - 10 mg/d 3 - 6 mg/d 10 - 20 mg/d 150 - 300 mg bid

★Doses of risperidone should be titrated at the rate of 1-2 mg/d because of the risk of orthostatic hypotension.

In older or frail patients, antipsychotic dosages for mild levels of agitation are often sufficient and avoid adverse effects.