Withdrawal from alprazolam dependency using clonazepam: clinical observations

Abstract

Clinical observations of 37 alprazolam-dependent patients are presented. Seventeen inpatients and 20 outpatients, the majority suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder, were withdrawn from alprazolam by means of clonazepam substitution in an open-label fashion. Two patients experienced rebound panic symptoms; true withdrawal syndromes were not observed. Although the limitations of an open series are evident, it was found that this method of discontinuation is safe and effective and, in particular, does not pose a danger of withdrawal seizures.