Dr. Ilse Wiechers Tackles Benzodiazepines: Safety, Alternatives, and More
We don't want you to stop taking these medications all of a sudden, because if you've been taking them for a long time and you stop suddenly, that could be dangerous and could lead to seizures or death.
Picture a veteran struggling with anxiety and sleep issues, caught in the complex web of benzodiazepine use. Dr. Ilse Wiechers, a leading expert from the VA, joins Dr. Roneet Lev in this episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction' to untangle this very issue. Dr. Wiechers brings her extensive experience with opioid and psychotropic drug safety initiatives to the table, offering a wealth of knowledge on the challenges and solutions surrounding benzodiazepines.
She stresses the importance of clear communication between healthcare providers and veterans, advocating for a partnership approach to reduce medication dependency. But that's not all—Dr. Wiechers dives into alternative treatments for anxiety disorders, practical tips for better sleep hygiene, and the critical topic of suicide prevention. She also sheds light on how marijuana use can impact medication effectiveness.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the nuanced landscape of benzodiazepine use and find actionable advice for safer, more effective treatment options.