Discovering that you are a victim or potential victim of iatrogenic (medically induced) dependence, withdrawal, and/or harm caused by benzodiazepines (BZs) can be disorienting and scary, especially since most victims were not given informed consent and/or were completely unaware of the potential dangers of what they thought was a “safe medication”. People in this position need help with piecing the puzzle together and guidance on where to get quickly educated and to find access to support. The following list below will guide anyone who thinks they are physically dependent on or in withdrawal from benzodiazepines by providing the fundamental information needed. The information is also good for family members, friends, caregivers, medical providers and the general public looking to get educated on the prescribed benzodiazepine problem. It will be especially useful, as well, for individuals who might be considering starting a new benzodiazepine prescription so that they can be fully aware and informed of the risks.
BENZODIAZEPINES: THE FUNDAMENTALS
Common Benzodiazepines & Z-Drugs (Half-Lives, Market Aim, Equivalent Oral Dosages)
Addiction and Physical Dependence Not Synonymous: As Prescribed Use vs. Abuse
What are Benzodiazepines & Z-drugs and How Do They Work?
Important: Do Not Cold-Turkey or Rapidly Taper Your Benzodiazepine!!
WHAT IF MY DOCTOR STOPS MY PRESCRIPTION?
DEATHS FROM BENZODIAZEPINE COLD-TURKEY
The Complications Associated With Benzodiazepines
BENZODIAZEPINE WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME (BWS)
PROTRACTED WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME (PWS)
SHORT-TERM USE: NOT WITHOUT RISK
RED FLAGS THAT YOUR BZ MAY BE YOUR PROBLEM
RISKS OF REMAINING ON BZs LONG TERM
COMPLICATIONS OF BZDS IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
Slow Tapering Protocols for BZs
Did You Know? Fact Sheet on the BZ Problem
RESOURCES:
Listing of Critical Resources which contains:
- General BZ Information
- Slow Tapering Protocols and Methods (including links to peer-created instructional videos)
- Online Support Forums/Consultations/Coaching
- Peer-Led/In-Person Local Support Groups
- Possible “Benzo-Wise” Doctors/Prescribers
- In-Person “Benzo-Wise” Therapists
- Information for Professionals
- Information/Support for Friends, Families, Caregivers
- BZ Dependence & Withdrawal Experts
- Withdrawal Charities
- BZ Information in Many Languages
- Books about BZ Dependence/Withdrawal
- Documentaries about BZs
- Meditations for BZ Withdrawal
- BZ Peer-Support Facebook Groups
Benzodiazepines & Pharmacogenomic Testing
Handout for Your Doctor or Prescriber
Handout for Your Counselor or Therapist
Handout for Your Loved Ones, Friends, or Caretakers
Other Benzodiazepine Organizations to Follow
