Mark Leeds, D.O.
Mark Leeds, D.O.
Benzodiazepine Kindling: A Critical Concern in Withdrawal and Dependence
Benzodiazepine Kindling: A Critical Concern in Withdrawal and Dependence
Benzodiazepine Kindling: A Critical Concern in Withdrawal and Dependence
Monday 1st July 2024
Explore benzodiazepine kindling with Dr Mark Leeds, focusing on withdrawal challenges, tapering methods, and best practices for safe management.
19 minutes
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Educational
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Non-judgmental
About this podcast
Author:
Mark Leeds, D.O.
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Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Sobriety Toolkit
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Nutritional Pathways to Recovery
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Get the buttons here!Benzodiazepine Kindling: Managing Withdrawal and Dependence
Episode Overview
- Understanding benzodiazepine kindling and its impact on withdrawal.
- The role of GABA and glutamate in withdrawal symptoms.
- Importance of gradual tapering to minimise discomfort.
- Need for informed consent and open communication.
- Educational initiatives promoting best practices in benzodiazepine management.
Kindling is a crucial concept in benzodiazepine withdrawal that demands attention from both patients and healthcare providers
In this episode, Dr Mark Leeds tackles the complex issue of benzodiazepine kindling and its implications for withdrawal and dependence. Benzodiazepines are often prescribed for anxiety, panic, and sleep disorders, but long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and severe withdrawal symptoms. Dr Leeds explains how benzodiazepines work by enhancing GABA, the brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, and highlights the risks associated with prolonged use.
The episode delves into the concept of kindling, where each successive withdrawal attempt becomes progressively more challenging due to neuroadaptive changes in the brain. This phenomenon makes it crucial for healthcare providers to carefully manage benzodiazepine use and tapering processes. You'll learn about the role of GABA and glutamate receptors in withdrawal symptoms and the importance of gradual discontinuation to minimise discomfort and prevent severe reactions.
Dr Leeds also emphasises the need for informed consent and open communication between patients and healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective benzodiazepine management. He discusses various tapering methods, including microtapering and liquid tapering, which aim to reduce withdrawal effects. The episode underscores the importance of education and awareness initiatives led by organisations like the Benzodiazepine Information Coalition to promote best practices in prescribing and tapering.
With a mix of scientific insights and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone affected by benzodiazepine use or involved in their care. Don't miss out on understanding how to navigate this challenging aspect of addiction recovery.