Deprescribing benzodiazepines for anxiety disorders in adults and young people

Ideally seek specialist advice when deprescribing a long-term benzodiazepine used for an anxiety disorder—a gradual dose reduction over several months may be needed. Consider switching to a long-acting benzodiazepine (eg diazepam) before deprescribing.

Stopping a long-term benzodiazepine in a patient taking one for an anxiety disorder requires:

• planning deprescribing with the patient
• a tailored dose reduction plan: reduce the dosage of benzodiazepine by approximately 25% of the original dose every 1 to 4 weeks. Slower weaning can be considered for the final dose reductions or if problematic discontinuation symptoms occur
• regular contact between the patient and the treating clinician
• the use of psychosocial interventions for the management of any residual symptoms of anxiety.

Reconnexion is an Australian organisation that provides patients with information, support and counselling for benzodiazepine dependence, and information for healthcare professionals [URL].

For advice on stopping a benzodiazepine that has been used to treat insomnia, see here.