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Mania precipitated by benzodiazepine withdrawal
J Rigby1, M Harvey, D R Davies
1Tone Vale Hospital, Taunton, Somerset, England.
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|April 1, 1989
Summary
Abrupt benzodiazepine withdrawal can trigger mania, even in older adults. This withdrawal state may act as a significant life event, precipitating manic episodes.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Benzodiazepine medications are commonly prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders.
- Abrupt cessation of benzodiazepines can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
- The potential for psychiatric complications following benzodiazepine withdrawal is a recognized concern.
Observation:
- A case study involving an 83-year-old woman experiencing mania after stopping benzodiazepines.
- The patient's manic episode occurred shortly after abrupt benzodiazepine discontinuation.
Findings:
- The abrupt benzodiazepine withdrawal was identified as a potential trigger for the manic episode.
- The withdrawal state is proposed as a significant life event contributing to the onset of mania.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of cautious benzodiazepine tapering, especially in elderly patients.
- Suggests that benzodiazepine withdrawal should be considered in the differential diagnosis of new-onset mania in older adults.
- Underscores the need for further research into the neurobiological mechanisms linking benzodiazepine withdrawal to manic episodes.