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Does Tapering Off Of Benzodiazepine Cause Restless Leg Syndrome?
Question: What causes that deep bone itch or restless leg like syndrome when you are in between doses or have tapered too quickly from a benzodiazepine? What can help this?
Brief Answer:
Going back to few days back can help
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for using Healthcaremagic.
I read your query and understand your concerns.
Rapid withdrawal of benzodiazepines cause withdrawal symptoms because brain finds it difficult to cope with situation in short period of time. However gradual withdrawal gives enough time for brain and body to adapt with lower dosage of benodiazepines which helps in avoidance of withdrawal symptoms.
At molecular level I like to state that Benzodiazepines facilitate GABA transmission which is responsible for calmness, slow neuronal transmission, muscle relaxation among others. At the time of rapid withdrawal there is indiscriminate firing of GABA neurons which leads to withdrawal symptoms including restless and deep bone itch.
When there is need to manage these symptoms it is advisable to go back to one step before. For example suppose your previous dose was 30 mg of Dalmane and current dose is 15 mg per day it is advisable to go back to 20 mg and remain there for one week before going back to 15 mg after one to two weeks.
I hope this answers you.
Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions.
Thanks and regards.
Going back to few days back can help
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for using Healthcaremagic.
I read your query and understand your concerns.
Rapid withdrawal of benzodiazepines cause withdrawal symptoms because brain finds it difficult to cope with situation in short period of time. However gradual withdrawal gives enough time for brain and body to adapt with lower dosage of benodiazepines which helps in avoidance of withdrawal symptoms.
At molecular level I like to state that Benzodiazepines facilitate GABA transmission which is responsible for calmness, slow neuronal transmission, muscle relaxation among others. At the time of rapid withdrawal there is indiscriminate firing of GABA neurons which leads to withdrawal symptoms including restless and deep bone itch.
When there is need to manage these symptoms it is advisable to go back to one step before. For example suppose your previous dose was 30 mg of Dalmane and current dose is 15 mg per day it is advisable to go back to 20 mg and remain there for one week before going back to 15 mg after one to two weeks.
I hope this answers you.
Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions.
Thanks and regards.
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Kampana
Answered by
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