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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How To Wean Off Benzodiazepine?

I need to wean off a benzodiasapine, (Lorazaepam) and get on a seiszure control drug like diasapam. I recently had a 13minute tonic clonic attack because of a missed doze and sleep dprived. I m scared for my wife. I bit my tongue up bad during last Saturday s seizsure which resulted in a trip to the ER. My wife usually doesn t call 911 and we handle them as I bounce back I had a massive stroke 33 years ago and have a large section of encepthalmalacia. I ve been to Brighham Neurology in Bos ton, they conconr my problem is caused from the long term benzo use. any comments. I am turning 59 New Years Eve. work full time and happilily married 37 years. But I m scared all the time what will be the trigger this time? All of mine have been in bed
Thu, 28 Jun 2018
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Neurologist,  's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

However I do not understand why you feel you need to wean from Lorazepam to take up Diazepam. They are both drugs of the same benzodiazepines class with similar indications. None are suitable for long term seizure prevention, are only used intravenous for major emergencies like status epilepticus. You should certainly be treated with an antiepileptic, but of another class. There are many different antiepileptics in circulation (Valproic acid, Carbamazepine, lamotrigine, levetiracetam etc), choice depends on seizure type and EEG findings, should be initiated under the supervision of a neurologist, gradually increasing the dose and lowering Lorazepam's dosage gradually every couple of weeks at the same time.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
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How To Wean Off Benzodiazepine?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. However I do not understand why you feel you need to wean from Lorazepam to take up Diazepam. They are both drugs of the same benzodiazepines class with similar indications. None are suitable for long term seizure prevention, are only used intravenous for major emergencies like status epilepticus. You should certainly be treated with an antiepileptic, but of another class. There are many different antiepileptics in circulation (Valproic acid, Carbamazepine, lamotrigine, levetiracetam etc), choice depends on seizure type and EEG findings, should be initiated under the supervision of a neurologist, gradually increasing the dose and lowering Lorazepam s dosage gradually every couple of weeks at the same time. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.