Benzodiazepines induce physical dependence and are potentially addictive. An abrupt discontinuation of benzodiazepine input may result in convulsions, confusion, psychosis, or effects similar to delirium tremens.  Therefor, every person on long-term or high dosage of any benzodiazepine should be carefully weaned off the drug.

Onset of the withdrawal syndrome might be delayed, and it might be delayed longer than the barbiturate withdrawal syndrome, although withdrawal from short-acting benzodiazepines often presents early.

The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome is characterized by:

• insomnia

• anxiety

• tremor

• perspiration

• loss of appetite

• delusions

Some of the withdrawal symptoms are identical to the symptoms for which the medication was originally prescribed. Benzodiazepines are valued by many patients for their ability to ameliorate existing conditions, while benzodiazepine dependency can cause them.  As it happens, benzodiazepines are the largest group of recreationally used drugs as well.