How Long do Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Symptoms Lasts?
October 7, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms and their duration can vary based on several factors, including the specific benzodiazepine, dosage, duration of use, individual differences in metabolism, and the tapering approach used for discontinuation. Benzodiazepines are a class of medications used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions, and abrupt cessation or rapid reduction in dosage can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Typically, withdrawal symptoms from short-acting benzodiazepines like Xanax (alprazolam) may start within hours or a day after the last dose and peak within the first week. For longer-acting benzodiazepines like diazepam (Valium), withdrawal symptoms may have a delayed onset, often within 1 to 4 days after the last dose, and peak around the second week.
The duration and intensity of benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Common withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Heightened anxiety, nervousness, and panic attacks.
- Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing vivid dreams.
- Restlessness and Irritability: Feeling restless, agitated, or easily irritated.
- Muscle Tension and Aches: Muscular tension, pain, and stiffness.
- Sweating and Tremors: Excessive sweating and trembling or shivering.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling nauseous and experiencing vomiting.
- Hallucinations or Delusions: Sensations of seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not real.
- Seizures: In severe cases, withdrawal can lead to seizures, especially if abruptly stopping high doses or long-term use.
It’s important to note that everyone’s experience with benzodiazepine withdrawal is unique, and some individuals may have a more prolonged or intense withdrawal process. Medically supervised tapering, where the dose is gradually reduced under healthcare supervision, can help manage withdrawal symptoms and minimize their severity and duration.
If you’re considering discontinuing benzodiazepines, it’s crucial to work closely with a healthcare professional to create a tapering plan and receive appropriate guidance and support throughout the process. They can tailor the tapering schedule to your specific needs, monitor your progress, and provide assistance in managing withdrawal symptoms effectively.