Benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome seizures.
In this study, we present five cases of seizures following withdrawal of flunitrazepam, lorazepam, or triazolam, representing 3% of a sample consisting of 153 patients dependent on benzodiazepines. Both abrupt cessation of benzodiazepine intake and high-dose use seem to be critical for the appearance of seizures. Pharmacological features, such as short elimination half-life and high potency, might explain the higher risk of seizures observed in these patients.
Martínez-Cano
H
H
Department of Psychiatry, Autonomous University of Madrid, Spain.
Vela-Bueno
A
A
de Iceta
M
M
Pomalima
R
R
Martínez-Gras
I
I
D000328:Adult; D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D005445:Flunitrazepam / Q000009:adverse effects; D006556:Heroin Dependence / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000009:adverse effects; D008140:Lorazepam / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D002189:Marijuana Abuse / Q000150:complications; D008875:Middle Aged; D012306:Risk; D012640:Seizures / Q000139:chemically induced*; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000209:etiology*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D014229:Triazolam / Q000009:adverse effects
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D014229:Triazolam; D005445:Flunitrazepam; D008140:Lorazepam