Benzodiazepines for panic disorder. Are they safe?
The incidence of benzodiazepine dependence in properly selected patients with panic disorder appears to be very low. Patients with a history of drug abuse should not be given benzodiazepines. Physical dependence manifested by withdrawal symptoms occurs in 5% to 45% of patients who discontinue benzodiazepine therapy. Withdrawal symptoms are usually mild and attenuated by use of a tapering schedule of several weeks' duration. Physical dependence should not be confused with substance dependence, a disorder characterized by multiple problems in daily life caused by use of a particular substance.
Garvey
M
M
Department of Psychiatry, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA 52246.
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D006801:Humans; D016584:Panic Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy*; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D001569:Benzodiazepines