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Motor phenomena in benzodiazepine withdrawal
1Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio.
Hospital & Community Psychiatry
|December 1, 1989
Summary
Benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause severe muscle activity due to disinhibition of motor areas. These persistent motor abnormalities may be misdiagnosed if not recognized as benzodiazepine discontinuation syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Benzodiazepines are widely prescribed psychotropic medications.
- Chronic use can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation.
Observation:
- Two cases of benzodiazepine withdrawal presented with unusual muscle activity.
- Motor abnormalities persisted after common withdrawal symptoms resolved.
Findings:
- The neurologic mechanism involves disinhibition of subcortical motor areas.
- Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) normally inhibits these motor areas.
Implications:
- Unrecognized motor phenomena can lead to misdiagnosis (e.g., drug seeking, hysteria).
- Awareness of these specific withdrawal symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient care.