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Benzodiazepine withdrawal in general practice.

D R Hopkins, K B Sethi, J C Mucklow

The Journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners

|December 1, 1982

Summary

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This study evaluated a benzodiazepine withdrawal program in general practice. A controlled withdrawal successfully helped most patients discontinue or significantly reduce their benzodiazepine use.

Area of Science:

General Practice
Pharmacology
Public Health

Background:

Benzodiazepine prescribing in general practice often lacks control and effectiveness.
Long-term benzodiazepine use poses risks and necessitates intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

To assess the efficacy of a controlled withdrawal program for long-term benzodiazepine users in a general practice setting.
To evaluate the safety and tolerability of benzodiazepine tapering.

Main Methods:

A prospective study involving 78 patients on long-term benzodiazepines (prescribed for >3 months).
Implementation of a structured, controlled withdrawal program with defined tapering schedules.
Follow-up assessments at program completion and 3-5 months post-completion.

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Main Results:

58% of patients discontinued benzodiazepines completely by program completion; 17% reduced intake by over 50%.
At 3-5 month follow-up, 63% had ceased benzodiazepines entirely, with only 2 patients restarting.
The median withdrawal duration was 3.2 weeks; withdrawal was generally well-tolerated, with insomnia as the primary side effect.

Conclusions:

A controlled benzodiazepine withdrawal program is effective in facilitating long-term cessation and reduction in general practice.
The tapering protocol is generally safe and well-tolerated, with minimal severe adverse events.
This approach offers a viable strategy for managing inappropriate long-term benzodiazepine use in primary care settings.