[Treatment of benzodiazepine dependence]

Fortschr Neurol Psychiatr. 2019 Apr;87(4):259-270. doi: 10.1055/a-0836-7514. Epub 2019 Apr 18.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Long-term prescriptions of benzodiazepines are made mainly to elderly and female patients. Withdrawal treatments should be carried out gradually over a period of several weeks. Sleep and depressive disorders during benzodiazepine withdrawal can best be treated with sedating antidepressants. The few studies on this subject suggest psychoeducation, motivational strategies and cognitive behavioural therapy as having some efficacy.

Langzeitverordnungen von Benzodiazepinen entfallen vor allem auf ältere und weibliche Patienten. Entzugsbehandlungen sollten schrittweise über einen mehrwöchigen Zeitraum erfolgen. Begleitende Schlaf- und depressive Störungen im Benzodiazepinentzug kann man am ehesten mit sedierenden Antidepressiva behandeln. Die spärliche Studienlage deutet auf eine gewisse Effizienz von Psychoedukation, motivationalen Strategien und kognitiver Verhaltenstherapie.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Anxiety Agents* / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Anxiety Agents* / adverse effects
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Benzodiazepines* / administration & dosage
  • Benzodiazepines* / adverse effects
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / therapeutic use*
  • Motivation
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / psychology
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / therapy*

Substances

  • Anti-Anxiety Agents
  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives
  • Benzodiazepines