Benzodiazepine withdrawal

Abstract

As with most psychotropic sedative drugs, the potential for withdrawal reactions is present with the benzodiazepines (19). Signs suggesting the potential for withdrawal reactions can be gleaned from the clinical course of events such as the development of tolerance anc psychological and physiological dependence. If high doses are reached, the risk of withdrawal reactions increases with the length of treatment and the abruptness of cessation. The long-acting benzodiazepines have a built-in mechanism against withdrawal reactions through their active metabolites. Abrupt cessation of drug therapy in high-dose patients should be avoided to reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions.