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If You're an Older Adult (65 or older)
• Older adults may experience higher risks when using
benzodiazepines:
» Your body may process medications more slowly, causing you
to be more sensitive to benzodiazepines.
» Many older adults take multiple medications for several
conditions. These medications and/or conditions may interact,
increasing health risks.
» These factors can increase the risk of negative outcomes such
as memory problems, falls, and car accidents.
• If you are an older adult, talk to your healthcare provider
about your risks and the potential benefits of tapering.
If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and taking benzodiazepines,
talk to your healthcare provider about the risks.
• In general, your healthcare provider may recommend other
treatments (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, antidepressants)
over benzodiazepines while you are pregnant.
• If you use benzodiazepines during pregnancy your healthcare
provider should recommend the lowest possible effective dose.
They may also monitor you more closely during this time.
• You can continue breastfeeding while taking benzodiazepines.
Breastfeeding is typically encouraged for infants exposed to
benzodiazepines during pregnancy as it may reduce their risk
of withdrawal symptoms.
• If you used benzodiazepines during pregnancy, tell your
infant's pediatrician and other health care providers.
