What it's used for
- Anxiety
- Sedation before procedures
- Status epilepticus
How it works: Enhances GABA at GABA-A receptors.
Common side effects
- Sedation
- Memory problems
- Dependence
Tapering considerations
- Often switched to diazepam for smoother tapering.
For prescribers & facilitators
- Not metabolised by CYP enzymes — fewer interactions; useful in liver impairment.
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