Benzodiazepine withdrawal: a review of the evidence

In a recent series of controlled studies, investigators looked at what happened when benzodiazepines were discontinued. Despite methodological problems, these studies showed that rebound anxiety occurred in a substantial minority of patients after several weeks of drug use. Also, a withdrawal syndrome developed in nearly half of patients who used benzodiazepines for more than a year. In these studies, risk factors included dose, duration of use, elimination rate of the drug, and abruptness of discontinuation. Patients who are physically dependent on benzodiazepines may need help in stopping these agents. Physicians should advise gradual discontinuation and, along with emotional support, should consider the use of alternative medications for the control of symptoms.