This timeline, benzodiazepine withdrawal marked by various phases and many potential symptoms, underscores the importance of a tailored and medically supervised withdrawal plan. Benzodiazepines, commonly referred to as “benzos,” have long been prescribed to treat a range of conditions, from anxiety and panic disorders to insomnia and epilepsy. Their effectiveness in calming the nervous system has made them a staple in treating such ailments, offering relief to millions worldwide. However, the flip side of this relief is the potential for physical dependence and addiction—a risk that becomes starkly apparent when the time comes to cease their use. Withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines can range from mildly uncomfortable to severe, posing significant challenges for those looking to disentangle themselves from the drug’s grip.
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Benzodiazepine withdrawal is a series of physical, emotional and behavior changes experienced when a person tries to reduce its dose or cease taking a benzodiazepine like Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, Diazepam, Librium or Onfi. When a person becomes physically dependent on benzodiazepines their body and brain become so accustomed to having the drug that they will experience withdrawal symptoms when you cut down the dose or stop the drug. Many people taking benzodiazepines long-term have also been prescribed antidepressant drugs because of developing depression, either during chronic use or during withdrawal. Antidepressant drugs should also be tapered slowly since they too can cause a withdrawal reaction (euphemistically labelled “antidepressant discontinuation reaction” by psychiatrists). If you are taking an antidepressant drug as well as a benzodiazepine it is best to complete the benzodiazepine withdrawal before starting to taper the antidepressant. A list of antidepressant drugs and brief advice on how to taper them is given in Schedule 13 of this chapter.
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Stopping benzodiazepines suddenly can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, including life-threatening conditions like seizures. It’s recommended to taper off the medication gradually under professional guidance to minimize withdrawal severity. Medical detoxification, under the supervision of healthcare professionals, can help manage and alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, certain medications may be prescribed to target specific symptoms. It’s essential to consult a medical professional before attempting to detox from benzodiazepines. The onset and duration of withdrawal symptoms depend on the duration of action of the BZD.
TABLE 3. SOME PROTRACTED BENZODIAZEPINE WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS
- Contact Healthy Life Recovery to learn more about our detox services and how we can help you or your loved one start the journey to recovery.
- Along with these symptoms, the person may experience severe cravings for the drug or other drugs to sedate them.
- On the whole, different approaches suit different individuals and need to be personalised.
Depending on your situation, your doctor may think it best to prescribe very small amounts of medication at a time. This will prevent you from altering the taper, but it might mean frequent trips to the pharmacy. Protracted withdrawal is a long-term withdrawal syndrome that what is Oxford House may come and go for several months.
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Improper benzodiazepine use is dangerous not only for its short-term side effects and the potential for physical dependence and eventual withdrawal symptoms. It can also greatly increase a person’s long-term risk of developing mental health disorders, memory problems, sleep problems, and cognitive decline. Physical and mental health conditions can influence the withdrawal timeline and symptom severity.