A single centre pilot randomised controlled trial of enteral Guanfacine vs Quetiapine for agitated delirium in patients in the intensive care unit

Delirium is a sudden state of confusion that is very common in intensive care units (ICUs). When patients become agitated alongside their delirium, it can be distressing and dangerous, and doctors often prescribe medications to calm them down. This trial is comparing two such medications — guanfacine and quetiapine — to see which one is safer and more effective for agitated ICU patients. This is a small pilot study involving 36 patients at a single hospital. Eligible patients will be randomly assigned to receive either guanfacine or quetiapine for up to 7 days while they remain in the ICU. Researchers will closely track how patients respond, what side effects occur, and whether one drug works better than the other. You may be eligible if you are 18 or older, currently in an ICU, showing signs of agitation, and your doctor believes either medication would be appropriate. People with certain liver conditions, neurological injuries, psychiatric disorders, heart problems, or who are pregnant are not eligible. The results of this study will help guide future treatment of this challenging condition.