Benzodiazepines lead to dependence and tolerance in a short period of time. They should only be prescribed for a limited time.
Although tolerance to benzodiazepines is common, it does not typically result in a need for increased dosage in stable patients.[26] Therefore, patient requests for increasing dosage should be examined for evidence of abuse or diversion.
Prescriptions should be monitored closely, with the drug stored safely and disposed of properly in order to reduce benzodiazepine diversion.
For outpatient treatment of benzodiazepine withdrawal, it is recommended that the drug should first be replaced with an equivalent dose of another benzodiazepine with an intermediate or long-acting effect. The dose should then be reduced weekly.[27]