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Manic-like reaction induced by lorazepam withdrawal.
1University of Ottawa, Ontario.
Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. Revue Canadienne De Psychiatrie
|November 1, 1987
Summary
Sudden lorazepam withdrawal can trigger acute manic-like reactions. This is likely due to a rapid release of catecholamines after stopping short half-life benzodiazepines.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Benzodiazepine medications are widely prescribed for anxiety and insomnia.
- Withdrawal symptoms commonly include anxiety, insomnia, and tremors.
- Psychotic reactions during benzodiazepine withdrawal are rarely documented.
Observation:
- This report details a case of acute manic-like symptoms.
- The reaction occurred after abrupt cessation of lorazepam, a short half-life benzodiazepine.
- The patient experienced a manic-like state mimicking bipolar mania.
Findings:
- Abrupt lorazepam withdrawal precipitated a severe manic-like episode.
- The underlying mechanism may involve the sudden, excessive release of catecholamines.
- This highlights a potential, albeit uncommon, neuropsychiatric complication of benzodiazepine cessation.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of acute manic-like reactions during benzodiazepine withdrawal.
- This case underscores the importance of gradual tapering for short half-life benzodiazepines.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the neurobiological underpinnings of benzodiazepine withdrawal-induced psychosis.