Benzodiazepines

What are benzodiazepines for PTSD?

Benzodiazepines are implemented to treat insomnia, irritability, and anxiety, which are common symptoms in people with PTSD. While benzodiazepines may diminish these symptoms, they may worsen other features, such as promoting avoidance in the long term. They are also associated with well-established patterns of tolerance and dependence, so they are prescribed with caution.

What is the evidence on benzodiazepines for PTSD?

Moderate quality evidence found a small effect that benzodiazepines can have an adverse impact on the prevention and treatment of PTSD.

August 2021

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Last updated at: 4:16 am, 15th October 2021
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Fact Sheet Technical Commentary

NeuRA Libraries

Title Colour Legend:
Green - Topic summary is available.
Orange - Topic summary is being compiled.
Red - Topic summary has no current systematic review available.