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Determine initial dose reduction
Considerations:
• BZD dose and half-life
• Frequency and duration of use
• Comorbidities
• Patient experience with tapering attempts
• Patient reported symptoms following missed dose
• Risk of withdrawal symptoms
Typical initial dose reduction: 5–10% every 2–4
weeks; Generally not more than 25% every 2 weeks
If paused, consider
slower taper when
ready to resume
Monitor withdrawal symptoms
Monitor withdrawal symptoms
Significant withdrawal symptoms
Pause/slow taper
Offer adjunctive interventions/
medications as appropriate
Consider switching to a longer-acting BZD
Consider maintaining on lower dose if
further dose reductions are not tolerated
Engage in shared decision making process with the patient
(and care partner[s]) whenever possible
