What it's used for
- Panic disorder
- Seizure disorders
- Sometimes sleep disorders
Read about: Panic disorder
How it works: Enhances GABA at GABA-A receptors.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Low mood
- Dependence
Tapering considerations
- Long half-life helps, but it is very potent — small changes matter.
- Drops or a diazepam switch may allow finer steps.
For prescribers & facilitators
- In epilepsy, reduction must be coordinated with neurology.
Sources
- 01Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (The Ashton Manual)
Prof. C. Heather Ashton, Newcastle University, 2002
- 02FDA requires Boxed Warning updated for benzodiazepines
U.S. Food & Drug Administration, 2020
- 03Medicines associated with dependence or withdrawal symptoms (NG215)
NICE Guideline, 2022
- 04The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines
Horowitz & Taylor, Wiley-Blackwell, 2024