Dependence on benzodiazepines.
Psychotropic drugs are widely prescribed and tend to be used on a long-term basis. The barbiturates are known to induce tolerance and dependence, with a well-defined and often severe withdrawal syndrome from high doses. By contrast, the benzodiazepines are infrequently associated with tolerance and dependence at high doses. Recent work, however, has suggested that a definite withdrawal syndrome can supervene on discontinuation of long-term normal doses of benzodiazepines. In view of the widespread and chronic use of the benzodiazepines, this may represent a major problem. The theoretical implications of such normal-dose dependence are discussed.
D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D004361:Drug Tolerance; D004569:Electroencephalography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D051381:Rats; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D001569:Benzodiazepines