Clinical management of withdrawal from benzodiazepine anxiolytic and hypnotic medications

Benzodiazepines continue to be prescribed widely in the management of patients with insomnia or anxiety disorders, despite the availability and acceptability of alternative pharmacological and psychological treatments. Many patients will experience adverse effects during treatment and considerable distress when the dosage is reduced and stopped. Management of benzodiazepine withdrawal includes measures to prevent the development of dependence, careful attention to underlying medical conditions, medication consolidation and gradual dosage reduction, accompanying psychological interventions, occasional prescription of concomitant medication, and relapse prevention with on-going support to address psychosocial stressors. There are needs for easier patient access to services with refined expertise and for further research to optimise strategies for preventing dependence and facilitating withdrawal.

Automated summary

Despite the availability of alternative treatments, benzodiazepines are still widely prescribed for patients with insomnia or anxiety disorders. Patients may experience adverse effects and distress during dosage reduction and cessation. Management of benzodiazepine withdrawal involves preventing dependence, monitoring medical conditions, gradual dose reduction, psychological interventions, occasional medication, and ongoing support to prevent relapse and address psychosocial stressors. Further research is needed to optimize strategies for withdrawal and prevention of dependence.