Withdrawal Reaction after Long-Term Therapeutic Use of Benzodiazepines

Authors:
  • UBUsoa Busto
    Usoa Busto
  • CNClaudio A. Naranjo
    Claudio A. Naranjo
  • HCHoward Cappell
    Howard Cappell
  • MSMartha Sanchez-Craig
    Martha Sanchez-Craig
  • KSKathy Sykora
    Kathy Sykora
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Abstract
We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which 40 patients who had undergone long-term therapy with benzodiazepines were switched to placebo or to diazepam in a dose approximately equivalent to their usual dose of the benzodiazepine; the dose of diazepam was then tapered during an eight-week period. Patients were assessed clinically and psychologically and had weekly sessions of behavioral therapy.