This updated version (Jan 2007) of Professor Ashton's manual is most welcome. It is based on a wealth of personal research and clinical experience and practice by the author. Historical patterns of benzodiazepine prescribing are reviewed with important updated advice about drug interactions particularly the co-prescribing of quinolone antibiotics. The roles of brain chemical messengers are described in an easily understood way. The crucial aspects and effects of chronic benzodiazepine drug dosing (including tolerance, dependence and withdrawal syndrome) are described in detail as are the necessary components of a successful benzodiazepine withdrawal program. Helpful examples of dose-reduction schedules explained, emphasising the need for the patient to be in control of dose-reductions.
However, there is still a lamentable lack of specialised facilities with experienced trained staff to support patients withdrawing from prescribed benzodiazepines.
The tables listing generic and branded benzodiazepines, their respective half-lives and relative potencies will be extremely useful for patients and clinicians. A detailed description of withdrawal phenomena will help patients rationalise their often distressing symptoms and there is encouragement that success will follow careful perserverance during withdrawal. There is important advice for patients co-prescribed antidepressants with benzodiazepines plus a suggested strategy for combination withdrawal. Prof Ashton also provides reassurance for those requiring surgery who have successfully negotiated benzodiazepine withdrawal. This should be a must have for manual for both patients and all clinicians who prescribe.
BCNC NOTE:-
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