Treatment depends on the type of benzodiazepine, dose, duration of use, and your overall health. Options may include:

1. Long-Acting Benzodiazepine Transition (When Appropriate)

Switching from a short-acting benzo (like Xanax®) to a longer-acting option (like diazepam or clonazepam) is a common, evidence-supported strategy.[1,2]

Long-acting medications help:

Smooth out withdrawal

Reduce rebound symptoms

Allow slower, safer tapering

Lower seizure risk

This is not the same as “replacing one addiction with another”—it’s a medically controlled transition to protect your brain during tapering.

2. Anticonvulsants

Medications such as:

Gabapentin

Carbamazepine

Valproate

may reduce withdrawal discomfort and lower seizure risk during tapering.[3]

3. Antidepressants

Medications like SSRIs or SNRIs may help if:

Anxiety persists during taper

Underlying depression or trauma exists

Insomnia worsens

They help stabilize mood during the transition off sedatives.

4. Beta-Blockers or Alpha-2 Agonists

Medications such as propranolol or clonidine may help with:

Palpitations

Sweating

Shakiness

Panic symptoms

5. Sleep Support Medications

Short-term, non-addictive medications may be used to help stabilize sleep, including:

Trazodone

Mirtazapine

Certain antihistamines

These help reduce dependence on sedative-hypnotics.

6. Medications for Co-Occurring Conditions

For PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or chronic pain, MAT may include medications that treat the underlying condition—reducing the need for benzodiazepines over time.

Is MAT for benzodiazepine addiction safe?

Yes—when supervised by medical professionals experienced in addiction medicine.

Stopping benzodiazepines suddenly can cause:

Severe anxiety

Hallucinations

Delirium

Seizures

Hospitalization

Life-threatening complications

At ACE Medical in Sunnyvale, we ensure withdrawal occurs slowly, with medications and monitoring that protect your safety.

We also coordinate with hospitals or specialty providers when complex medical needs are present.