BENZODIAZEPINE DEPRESCRIBING GUIDELINES

While it also addresses other classes of drugs, the Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines can be viewed as a significant update to the Ashton Manual.  It introduces non-linear tapering and embraces the concept of a patient-led taper.  In contrast to the fixed-rate tapers common throughout psychiatry and addiction treatment centers, it offers a much safer and effective taper methodology.  This includes several different suggested taper rates, depending on the patient’s reaction to the decreases in medication.

BENZODIAZEPINE TERMINOLOGY

Review the terms that are seen in this website which have meanings that are specific to benzodiazepines or Z-drugs, or where the terms are used differently for benzodiazepines or Z-drugs than they are used in other contexts.

QUICK LINKS TO THE PRESCRIBER INFORMATION FOR ALL OF THE BZDS AND Z-DRUGS

All of the benzodiazepines and Z-drugs sold in the US (and some sold only in other countries) are listed here, along with links to the FDA label documents.

EXPERT PRESENTATIONS, VIDEOS AND MUCH MORE

Several all-day or multi-day symposia have focused on the problems with benzodiazepines.  Most of the expert presentations are available to view, both in pdf and video format.  As part of its ongoing commitment to prescriber education, the Alliance continues to deliver CME-qualified lectures across the US and internationally.  A schedule is provided, and some of these presentations are also available for viewing or use.  The problems with benzodiazepines have been featured in movies, TV shows, and interviews.

BENZODIAZEPINE REFERENCE LIBRARY

Over 1000 BZD and Z-drug research papers have been analyzed and categorized into 20 different topic areas.  Each topic area has its own table of contents, with links to the sub-category containing the papers.  Active links are provided to each paper’s abstract or the full text of the paper.

EXPAND ON OR CORRECT THIS INFORMATION

The Alliance is committed to making sure that the information presented on this website and in our literature and continuing medical education courses is scientifically accurate.  If you have concerns about the accuracy of the data or analyses presented, please contact us.  We appreciate your help to improve the site’s accuracy and usefulness.