A comparison of chlormethiazole and thioridazine in agitated confusional states of the elderly.

Chlormethiazole and thioridazine were found to be equally effective in the management of the agitational component of agitated confusional states in the elderly. Confusion and nocturnal awakening were found to be controlled more effectively with chlormethiazole than with thioridazine. Chlormethiazole treatment also resulted in significant reductions in physical disability as assessed by the Clifton Behaviour Rating Scale. A greater incidence of adverse effects was associated with thioridazine treatment.