MIND-USA Update

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Millions of critically ill patients every year develop confusion (delirium) while in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). To treat delirium, ICU teams often use antipsychotics despite no support from rigorous randomized placebo-controlled trials. Haloperidol, a typical antipsychotic, is used by over 80% of ICU doctors for delirium, while atypical antipsychotics, like ziprasidone, are prescribed by 40%. Antipsychotics have been related to heart rhythms, muscle spasms, restlessness, slow movement, and higher rates of death in non-ICU patients.

The MIND-USA trial is the first multicenter study ever to answer the question of whether treatment with antipsychotics (haloperidol or ziprasidone) are better or worse than a placebo for delirious ICU patients. We will learn important answers about whether antipsychotics alter brain function, survival, and time on ventilators, in the ICU, and hospital, as well as if they are safe for our vulnerable ICU patients.

Read on PubMed.gov

Common Use of Antipsychotics Shown Ineffective for Delirium in Intensive Care Patients