Workshop: "But it's the ONLY thing that works": Challenges and Opportunities in Withdrawal Management for Chronic Benzodiazepine Use-"But it's the ONLY thing that works": Challenges and Opportunities in Withdrawal Management for Chronic Benzodiazepine Use

"But it's the ONLY thing that works": Challenges and Opportunities in Withdrawal Management for Chronic Benzodiazepine Use

Back to course

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The workshop focused on the complexities of managing benzodiazepine use, emphasizing the difficulty in helping patients taper off chronic use. Key points included the pharmacology of benzodiazepines, the development of tolerance, withdrawal management, and the challenges of tapering patients with long-term use. The discussion acknowledged that many patients insist benzodiazepines are the only effective treatment for their conditions, despite the risks of dependency and withdrawal. Strategies were shared, such as tapering doses and switching from short-acting to long-acting benzodiazepines like clonazepam to facilitate a more stable withdrawal process. The workshop highlighted the need for a patient-centered approach, setting realistic goals, and utilizing additional medications and therapies to manage withdrawal symptoms. Phenobarbital was detailed as an alternative treatment in inpatient settings for severe cases, especially when traditional benzodiazepine tapers are ineffective. This approach aims to balance both GABA and glutaminergic tone in the brain. It was noted that continuing research and shared best practices are necessary to better understand the long-term outcomes and success rates of these detox protocols. Overall, the workshop stressed a cautious and individualized approach to benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal treatment, ensuring patient safety and enhancing life quality.

Keywords

benzodiazepine

tapering

withdrawal management

pharmacology

dependency

tolerance

patient-centered approach

clonazepam

phenobarbital

GABA

glutaminergic tone

detox protocols

inpatient treatment

	The content on this site is intended solely to inform and educate medical professionals. This site shall not be used for medical advice and is not a substitute for the advice or treatment of a qualified medical professional.		400 Massasoit Avenue Suite 108 East Providence, RI 02914 cmecpd@aaap.org Privacy	About Advocacy Membership Fellowship Education and Resources Training Events