Pharmacologic treatment of brain failure and delirium.

The critical care unit is a place where multiple organ system failure can be effectively reversed by highly technologic treatment innovations. That same technology can confer a great deal of stress on the patient, leading to the unique syndrome of integrative brain failure. Exacerbating factors, such as pain, anxiety, and discomfort, can ultimately result in severe agitation syndromes. This article outlines uniquely specialized treatments for these syndromes and the outlook for future therapies.