B15 - The Joint Clinical Practice Guideline on Benzodiazepine Tapering: Considerations When Benzodiazepine Risks Outweigh Benefits

Developed through a partnership of ten medical and professional societies, a new guideline focuses on evidence-informed and consensus-based strategies to help clinicians determine whether tapering benzodiazepine medications may be appropriate for a given patient, and if so, how to taper them.

Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are commonly prescribed, and FDA approved to treat a wide range of conditions including anxiety and mood disorders, insomnia, and seizures. BZD use is associated with increased risk for adverse events including falls, motor vehicle accidents, cognitive impairment, and overdose (particularly when BZD are used in combination with opioids). Patients who have been taking BZD for longer than a month should not abruptly discontinue the medication, but rather should gradually taper the dosage over a period of time under clinical supervision. This new guideline aims to assist clinicians in helping patients safely taper their BZD medication, while minimizing withdrawal symptoms and associated risks. This session will provide an overview of the guideline and highlights key takeaways.