Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates Beyond Tapering: Supporting Patients Through Benzodiazepine Discontinuation
Jun 25, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Alexis Ritvo, a board-certified addiction psychiatrist and fellowship program director, dives into the complexities of benzodiazepine discontinuation. She highlights the cognitive and emotional challenges faced during withdrawal, including alarming rates of suicidal ideation. The conversation reveals why many patients seek support from online forums over traditional healthcare and explores alternative therapies and peer support as vital components in recovery. Listeners gain insightful strategies for providing empathetic care and informed consent in discontinuation processes.
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Patient Paula's Benzodiazepine Struggle
- Paula, a long-term clonazepam user, experienced severe withdrawal symptoms including cognitive difficulties and profound fatigue.
- Her symptoms led to job loss, relationship problems, and feelings of hopelessness, illustrating the harsh realities of benzodiazepine discontinuation.
Severe Life Impact of Withdrawal
- Benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause debilitating symptoms affecting careers, relationships, and mental health.
- Over 50% of patients in surveys report suicidal thoughts or attempts related to benzodiazepine use or discontinuation.
FDA Black Box Update on Risks
- The FDA updated benzodiazepine black box warnings in 2020 to acknowledge protracted withdrawal and long-term risks.
- Medical support is often lacking for patients harmed by long-term benzodiazepine use due to failure to recognize dependence.