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Physical dependence is not the same as a substance use
disorder, or addiction.
Almost everyone who takes benzodiazepines regularly for more
than a month will develop physical dependence, even when the
medication is taken as prescribed.
The goal of this patient guide is to help people who may have
developed physical dependence on benzodiazepines to safely
taper while reducing withdrawal symptoms and other risks.
Many people can taper benzodiazepines without significant
problems. However, you may feel worried about the tapering
process. Withdrawal symptoms such as sleep disturbance and
anxiety are significant concerns. Talk to your healthcare provider
about your concerns. There are many ways they can help.
• Physical dependence is different from a substance use disorder,
or addiction.
• Physical dependence occurs when your body adapts to the
presence of benzodiazepines such that you experience withdrawal
symptoms when reducing or stopping the medication.
• While unlikely, some patients may experience withdrawal
symptoms after as little as two or three weeks of regular
benzodiazepine use.
• This patient guide focuses on the tapering of benzodiazepines.
Tapering means gradually reducing the dosage of a medication
rather than abruptly stopping.
• Tapering benzodiazepines often takes months. For some
patients it may take years.
• If you have been taking benzodiazepines regularly for more
than a month you may have developed physical dependence.
Do not stop taking the medication abruptly. Work with your
healthcare provider to slowly reduce your dose to minimize
withdrawal symptoms.
