Experiences with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation: an Internet survey.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Over 92 million prescriptions for benzodiazepines are dispensed in the United States annually, yet little is known about the experiences of those taking and discontinuing them.

Objective

The aim of this study is to assess the experiences of those taking, tapering, or having discontinued benzodiazepines.

Methods

An online survey (n = 1207) elicited information about benzodiazepine use, including long-term use, tapering, discontinuation, and withdrawal symptoms.

Results

Symptoms associated with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation were numerous and ranged from symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and nervousness to digestive problems, irregular heart rhythms, uncontrollable anger, photosensitivity, balance problems, and others. When

SUBMITTER: Reid Finlayson AJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9047812 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature