Do Benzodiazepines Cause Dementia?

Benzodiazepines are a type of medication prescribed to people with anxiety and panic disorders. But do they cause dementia? In this video, I talk about the research on benzodiazepines and dementia, and what it means for people taking these medications.
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REFERENCES:
Allison, C, and J A Pratt. “Neuroadaptive processes in GABAergic and glutamatergic systems in benzodiazepine dependence.” Pharmacology & therapeutics vol. 98,2 (2003): 171-95. doi:10.1016/s0163-7258(03)00029-9
Shi, Y., Cui, M., Ochs, K. et al. Long-term diazepam treatment enhances microglial spine engulfment and impairs cognitive performance via the mitochondrial 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO). Nat Neurosci 25, 317-329 (2022). doi.org/10.1038/s41593-022-01...
Lauren B Gerlach, DO, MS, Hyungjin Myra Kim, ScD, Rosalinda V Ignacio, MS, Julie Strominger, MS, Donovan T Maust, MD, MS, Use of Benzodiazepines and Risk of Incident Dementia: A Retrospective Cohort Study, The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, Volume 77, Issue 5, May 2022, Pages 1035-1041, doi.org/10.1093/gerona/glab241
Joyce, G, Ferido, P, Thunell, J, Tysinger, B, Zissimopoulos, J Benzodiazepine use and the risk of dementia. Alzheimer's Dement. 2022; 8:e12309. doi.org/10.1002/trc2.12309
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[@melanie98d]

I'm 18months off now and I'm discovering more and more memories that were once lost return.

[@mariahcox6599]

Great

[@gabrialjackson5878]

Wow

[@Grushenke89]

My grandmother took a benzo until she passed at age hundred. she was sharp as a tack until the. end

[@2AM_Radio]

Same with my Grandmother. She was 96. No memory issues. Lived at her own home until she passed away peacefully in her sleep. Took them every day for over 40 years. I been taking them everyday as prescribed for 20+ years and my memory has never been better.

[@coffee1940.]

I suffered a bra[n injury....been on them for 30 yr for sleep...no problem

[@jameseclipts9686]

Finally a real deal video and not a short ! I love your videos. I wish I was able to set up with your office and see you as an actual Dr.. your videos have helped me more than any therapist or psychiatrist that I've ever had ❤️

[@heywatchthis1992]

New video every Wednesday brother and plenty of good information in old ones. The shorts is just so YT spreads word of the channel to people who could benefit from finding it. Have a good day everyone.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks James. Yes the shorts are new and experimental. They are reaching people who have never watched my longer form videos before. These longer form publish on Wednesdays.

[@theaustralianconundrum]

@@DrTraceyMarks Australian male aged 63 as of 2022. Placed on Xanax 1994-1998 6mg/24 hours then replaced with Diazepam 1999-2022. First 90 days on Diazepam was 50mg/24 hours then reducing to current daily 24 hours of 10mg per day. Try coming off this!!!!!!! I have been to ER 9 times thanks to withdrawal off these poisons. Have a great week!

[@mastiffmom2592]

@@theaustralianconundrum Wow! Those are high doses for Xanax and Valium. It’s good to hear you are down as low as you are. From everything I’ve learned you should taper 10% for at least a week-10 days, or longer. Try going to 9mgs Diazepam for at least a week. I’m definitely not a doctor! I’m researching this topic because I’m going into detox and treatment. I’m scared! The facility is saying I’ll be through detox in 5 days?! Now, I’m seeing this information everywhere. I’m going to have a very detailed discussion with my doctor BEFORE I even check in.

[@sr2291]

@@theaustralianconundrum Why was the dosing so high?

[@crisis420]

I've been on benzos daily for over 10 years, mostly Valium, and yes, it was all prescribed, and my current doctors are trying to undo years of damage. I've been tapering off since last year, and it's not over yet. I've always had memory issues, but never as bad as they are now, and I'm not even 30 yet. So glad to see more awareness for this issue being spread out there, it NEEDS to be said.

[@mohammedtabach2608]

هل إستعدت ذاكرتك

[@sandywhat2429]

I was on 3 of them. I was on benzos for 40 years. No shortage of psychopaths in psychiatry. My memory is back. Really. Don’t worry.

[@FractalXx.]

I stared taking Xanax last year around may and fast-forward 5 months later I was still on it I don't even remember that period I was using it,made me depressed more anxious,11 months since that and I'm clean started mindfulness training and gym helps a lot with depression and anxiety. Thanks for this video Doc ❤️

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Oh I'm so glad those natural approaches work for you. Thanks for sharing this!

[@tubo1812]

At what dose?

[@FractalXx.]

@@tubo1812 I started at 0.25mg all the way to 5mg a day.

[@NatureHeadSupreme]

💪🏽💪🏽 you tell no lies!! No one said the illness goes away it just becomes different in managing once you finally decide to have courage & step up to be accountable!

[@poisonfortheweak]

Yeah I had a 7 year relationship where I was on Klonopin that I don’t even remember. Fast forward 10 years later I almost died from benzo withdrawal- yes, it can be fatal. I’ll never be the same functioning person I once was and I’ve been off of benzos for about 8+ years now.

[@thehoop74]

I was on benzos since 96. I began tapering super slowly in 2013. I've been off 5 years and it has not gotten better. It took 4 and a half years to taper off Klonopin 6mg. I was a registered nurse. I can't work in that field because my memory is shot. I feel like I have early onset dementia or Alzheimer's. I really want compensation for the crap I going through. I weaned slowly on MY OWN and still suffered withdrawal for 2 years after. So my experience says yes they do cause cognitive decline. My memory was great while I was on them. Not now. I am not a Dr but my experience trump's any Drs objective findings. And I know MANY more who are in the same boat.

[@poisonfortheweak]

Same here. Was on 6mg of Klonopin a day. Was physically dependent on it as I realized in the few horrific times where my prescription didn’t go through or some other holdup. One time I moved to a different state and I couldn’t get a refill since my doctor wouldn’t do it since I was out of state. I went into acute withdrawal and that was literally the worst experience of my life. I ended up in the hospital after having seizures and hearing voices for a week. I couldn’t sleep at all during that time and I would literally almost jump out of my skin if someone even touched me or startled me. Thank God I was able to get off of it using a long slow taper with Valium (I actually suggested this protocol since I knew way more than my doctors about benzo withdrawal.) To this day, almost 10 years later, I still struggle with even being able to have enough mental sharpness or clarity to even think straight. I feel like I’m in a constant fog where I’m just existing like a robot or avatar. I have very low quality of life now- so you’re not alone. It’s a daily struggle to find something- a supplement, this or that which can make me feel like a normal person again. Still haven’t found it.

[@thehoop74]

@@poisonfortheweak same for me. Horrible drugs

[@ashcosmo3854]

When your brain no longer produces GABA your brain cells experience excitotoxicity (brain damage) as there is no GABA to calm the nerves in the brain.. you need the slowest taper physically possible. I'm blown away by how doctors don't know this stuff.

[@brianm1185]

Your getting post acute withdrawal

[@Viper-jk2pf]

I was on klonopin for 13 yrs and my mental capabilities were declining. I got scared and cold turkey them not knowing it was dangerous. Went into the hospital for 4 days due to severe tremors,etc..This caused me to go into protracted withdrawel for 2 yrs. I'm now 6 yrs off and still have DP/DR and tinnitus. These medications are extremely dangerous of taken for long periods. They should only be given in extreme duress and only for a few weeks.

[@user-mc2tu5zu6v]

I agree... they messed up my ability to sleep . Seizure from going cold turkey 5 days off of 1.5 mg. for 10 years. Got covid during chemo.

[@kimberlykay1495]

This exact same thing happened to my mother! She’s a shell of what she used to be in myself and my family are all worried sick and it’s been like two years now. It’s really hard to see her like this she just rocks in a chair all day. Sometimes when I called them and she answers I forget that she’s not the same and it just crushes me

[@stardustring]

😭😭😭😭

[@beverlyallison4768]

My mom has been on klonopin for anxiety for 40 years and she has dementia . Her body is healthy

[@echase416]

That is a tragic situation. 💔

[@Moniikkah17]

Do a video about anti depressants, please! I've been taking antidepressant for +14 years and i feel some cognitive changes that you mentioned in this video. I feel like there's lots of info about the negative effects of benzos, but not enough about anti depressants.

[@johnsonsgreen928]

up!

[@tubo1812]

Because American doctors are benzophobic due to many abuse them and puritanism. They give AD that work bad for andiety and also have withdrawal effects plus many other side effects like anhedonia, loss of libido, anorgasmia, cognitive, etc. Not to say they can't be used.

[@brendahadaway9073]

I agree. This would be awesome

[@Elektra_7]

True fact!

[@sandbar3000]

Yep the sad thing about some antidepressants is some of them you can't stop abruptly. And I do believe some antidepressants are worse than others...one snri.. Effexor you cannot stop abruptly. And I remember my mom getting worse around 2015 2016 and she's been on this drug since I think I think since 2001 or 2002. That's long-term use and I remember having to go to work in 2016 and told my mom this truck makes you lose weight and that's a side effect and my mom was losing significant amount of weight and I thought it was a side effect from the drug. And I told my mom take these 5 days a week in 2 weeks we're going to drop down to 4 days a week and another two weeks we're going to drop down to 3 days and then 2 days and then one week every two weeks we're going to take one pill off. I had to go to work. And I remember coming home asking my mom in March of 2016 did you take your pill today and she'd say I don't know I don't remember. The next day the same thing I don't know I don't remember. Looking back I could have gave my mom the pill at 6:00 a.m. in the morning before I left for work. I could have took the pill bottle away from her to make sure she doesn't take anymore. But I didn't do that. I left the pill bottle there because I thought she would remember. Within a month I saw horrible decline in my mother because I don't think she was taking any of her snri medication. I think she just forgot every day. It was so stressful because I lived with her and I had to go to work those 3 days a week. I didn't have anybody there to help me watch my mom all day long. Then all the doctors started playing doctor and changed her medicine and gave her this and gave her that and gave her an anti Parkinson's drug and that made her have head seizures it was horrible what those doctors and those drugs did to her. Always have somebody with your loved one if you can't be there with them especially if you think they're not remembering to take the medication because a lot of them you cannot stop abruptly

[@hecklerkoch2446]

Diet and Exercise WILL help with this issue. I've been on Xanax and Ativan for over 20 years(taken daily) with Effexor as an SNRI. I Exercise Daily(60 minuteson a treadmill), and extremely limit my sugar intake. It's also very important to keep electrolytes in check. I drink Biolyte every morning for this. Benzos saved my life, I'm not a doctor, but do extensive research on all my medical problems. DIET AND EXERCISE FOLKS.

[@missmarthafawker]

If your not diabetic this sounds like a diet and exorcise eating disorder. Keep that in mind. You might need all that extra because your meds aren’t working. Especially the Effexor. That was so hard to get off. I had to open the capsule and take a tiny sphere or two out a day for weeks. It was awful. Your on some very hard medications so be careful and remember fake sugar is still sugar it’s just not used by our bodies and can cause other issues with in it. Ann reardon does a great video on it. And I say all of this as a diabetic who had gastric bypass and has an eating disorder.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks for sharing this. Exercise and diet are important, but I think we take it for granted since you don't see the effects immediately.

[@hecklerkoch2446]

@@missmarthafawker I'm laughing at the moment because I don't have an Eating disorder or on any Diet......I don't use Fake sugar. I learned 12 years ago that walking everyday and watching your sugar intake(And Caffeine) Drastically reduced my anxiety. It's not easy to do everyday, but it's essential for me. I hold myself to high standards.....Not OCD.

[@hecklerkoch2446]

@N M totally agree about caffeine.

[@Viper-jk2pf]

Good luck trying to ever come off of them

[@annayermilov]

I am in the process of tapering off of Valium after being on Xanax and then Valium for anxiety for years. I’ve been tapering for almost 4 years now and am on my last few months. I appreciate you bringing this to light as it’s definitely not talked about enough.

[@sleepyhead8681]

Valium is probably the easiest to ween off. Good luck :)

[@djv164]

I tried tapering off several times but when I got down to a low dose i couldn't sleep at all and would thus end up back taking more so I could sleep. I finally had a medical detox and the doctor came up with a combination of trazadone, amitriptyline, Seroquel, Atarax and gabapentin that got me sleeping again and then i slowly reduced and stopped these drugs one at a time. Its been & years now and I have never taken a benzo since! I hope this information helps.

[@elizabethtrainer9732]

BRAVO!! That is AMAZING!

[@jimbob4456]

Congratulations. I took 1-1/2 years to taper off a relatively small prescribed amount of Xanax. It was ridiculously difficult.

[@sleepyhead8681]

@@jimbob4456 good job that's hard. Try 2 remeber total recivery takes 2 yrs.

[@lindajohnsonkaplan7725]

My mother began taking benzodiazepines in 1993 and still takes them daily. At one point she was taking two different prescriptions at the same time. Her cognitive decline has been noticeable and over the last 10 years she’s no longer the same person. After reading several studies including one from Harvard School of Medicine I spoke with my parents about this problem repeatedly and also her prescribing psychiatrists. Her psychiatrist acknowledged the danger and risk of cognitive decline But the only thing that changed was a recent lowering in dosage and the elimination of one of the prescriptions. This was preventable and yes the decades of benzodiazepines were the cause.

[@paulrodriguez8852]

My Mother who was a very intelligent woman. Contracted dementia from a stroke. She first started to lose her short term memory, and then it got worse over the next few years. She died in 2011. It was hard watching that happen to her. All we could do was pray to God. We were absolutely helpless in trying to help her. So I am glad you are addressing this illness. I don't wish this on anyone.

[@bribaxterherrick9599]

Dr Marks, I will never be able to fully express how much help you have been to me and improving my life overall. Even from a distance, by video and book, you continue to fill my toolbox with invaluable pieces to navigate any obstacle. Please keep up the work, this is your true calling. Be prepared for my first novel to feature you in the dedication page!

[@jahjah1769]

I happy you got up one day and decided to make KZbin videos. We needed you on this platform.

[@missbeahaven1935]

This happened to me. I took them for seizures. I stopped Ativan and went into a total psychotic episode and completely lost my memory for 4 months. I "woke up" out of it IN JAIL! I somehow ordered groceries online and I thought the girl that delivered them was my daughter! I didn't want her to leave so, she thought I was kidnapping her and called the police. I should have been taken to the E.R. but, I was taken to jail because a cop told EMS that I was just drunk. It was a medical emergency. I am a nurse and a former paramedic and I read the run report and they said I had a blown pupil, I was diaphoretic and, cyanotic. I was told I'm lucky to have even survived or come out of it at all. My lawyer talked me into signing an NGRI even though I didn't do anything wrong and it has ruined my life. I was already disabled from a medication error involving Klonopin. The pharmacy put double the amount I was supposed to have on the bottle and, it was the one time I didn't check the order, I trusted my PCP to call it in. Benzos are horrible and need to be taken off the market.

[@caroconga]

What an horrific story. I went cold turkey on Rivotril and became psychotic too. Luckily, a friend of mine got me to hospital. They just put me back on it to get rid of the symptoms. Still, much better than waking up in jail. Mother of God, that's just terrible. Take care

[@zenseed75]

I'm so sorry that happened to you.

[@lisamoag6548]

yes!!!

[@Misfit-from-Zanti]

Yes they need to be off the market. Need a class action lawsuit. Drs are waking up to opioids, time to shut the door on benzos

[@missbeahaven1935]

@@Misfit-from-Zanti The biggest lawsuit ever filed was against the makers of benzos and it went nowhere. They are still the most prescribed class of drug there is.

[@dianegiordano4011]

Dr. Marks you are amazing. Thank you for taking the time to break down to us what other Dr's simply don't have the time or refuse to take the time to do. Much-needed and much appreciated .

[@jeffcorp972]

The longer, more detailed videos are amazing. The short videos are even more amazing and helpful, especially for ADD/ADHD/ETC.

[@carmelindiana1565]

I just absolutely love all our videos and especially the shorts. God bless you, Doc! Thank you for the continued education. Excellence at its finest.

[@danieleal1925]

Dr. Tracey they way you explain mental health topics it’s very intelligible and comprehensible! Thank you so much from Italy ❤️

[@OGSarah]

This is very informative but also scary. Thank you for explaining this in such great detail. I have to take benzos when I have dental work and I’m glad to know that the “hangover “ feeling I have after the meds have worn off is very real.

[@christopherlee627]

My father took valium and mogadon for many years, possibly decades, in large amounts and has gone on to develop Alzheimer's. My father in law had been taking them for many years and just went off them about two years ago and we have noticed a fairly rapid cognitive decline. I wouldn't be at all surprised if further studies do confirm a causal link.

[@drahcirnevarc9152]

This happened to my father too. He was an internationally renowned merchant banker, took industrial quantities of benzos for decades, and spent his last seven years in the Alzheimers twilight zone before finally dying six months ago.

[@pjsmith4369]

@@drahcirnevarc9152 And my Father was on Valium since the sixties and went into Law School at age 51. He died at 89, as intelligent and well spoken as he had always been. Listening to a beautiful opera duet that left him in tears until he died.

[@christopherlee627]

@@pjsmith4369 I think we can always find exceptions, for example the person who chain smoked and drank every day and lived until they were 90. But for every exception there would likely be a large number who died early due to lung cancer and liver disease.

[@kkrollingskkrollings3173]

I believe 💯 they cause death of the memory, i call them forgetmenots, I know a number of cases like you said people with alzheimers, dementia that took benzos for years. I'm 40 and took them for years my mind is failing me now. I'm off them 3 years and my memory is so poor I have all the early symptoms of alzheimers or Dementia, after 3 years still no better I forgot things I just said places I put stuff peoples names dates etc... every single day of my life. I took large doses of benzos on and off for about 15 Years I did have some periods were I came off them for a year or so a few times. I've quit cold turkey a few times and last time was a wean down. Horrible horrible stuff it's actually not meant for long term. It's super addictive and really messes up the brain chemistry Gabba receptors production after stopping the brain can't produce its own slowly comes back but I bleave never to normal especially if one has taken a longer time. How it affects other parts of the brain they don't even know, the brain is far to complex. Big pharma makes billions off benzos they will never take them off the market. They are one of the most prescribed meds in North America. Kids are even on them. Like predue pharma and oxy contin they are legal mafia and crooks all about profits and greed at the expense of innocent people just destroying people's lifes

[@lescoburandun1457]

@@kkrollingskkrollings3173 same here I abused them for years. Been off em for a couple years now but my memory is non existent and I’m 39. I’d bet money that they totally kill memory.. It doesn’t come back either. Feel like I can’t think nearly as good as I used to either..

[@gingershade4633]

Personally I would look into the research on long covid. There's some very good study's that have been done that link long covid and what they call "brain fog" but mostly the symptoms mimic Alzheimer's and Dementia. Some doctors even have to stop doing surgeries because they couldn't trust their minds. Personally I would take a good look into that.

[@cave_hag]

I've been enjoying your book on Audible. So glad you are the narrator. I like how much more in depth you go about some of the mental illnesses. Definitely going to have to give a once over after I'm done. My brain is terrible at retaining information.

[@michellemorgan6578]

Thank you Dr. Marks...I have been wondering about this very thing! I took Ativan for 4 months for anxiety, and very slowly weaned off because I was having a lot of memory problems, and I'm only 45. I was only taking 1mg per day, but although my last dose was July 22nd, my memory is not back to normal yet, and I'm starting to worry that it may never go back! Thank you for this video. I love how well you explain complex things for everyone to understand. You're amazing ❤️

[@mohammedtabach2608]

هل عادت ذاكرتك جيدة جاوب أرجوك

[@englishinthebag]

Very informative and instructive medical content.Everything is systematically explained.Your lectures were of a great value .Appreciations from Morocco.

[@NurseClaudia]

I suffer from anxiety and panic attacks. It’s awful. I am so getting your book.

[@personneici2595]

Thanks for this information. I have a loved one on benzos and they ask about this a lot so it's good to have scientific research that shows the impacts.

[@knz2731]

I so wish I could see you as my doctor!! Thank you for all the valuable information ❤

[@leanned9251]

Thank you for this educational video! I am a psychiatric nurse and I love learning new studies and researching of the work I do for my clients and patients :)

[@tormentors]

I just wanted to say that Doctor I find your videos incredible I have learned a lot from different topics thank you for sharing with us through them is fantastic to have people like you

[@KimberlyLetsGo]

Congratulations on your book! I will check it out, for sure.

[@chrisr838]

Thanks Dr. Marks . This video was somewhat reassuring to me . I’ve felt so hopeless for a while

[@CheerfulNihilism]

My mom is a retired geriatric ARNP, when I was prescribed benzos she said they're a "dirty drug" because they end up making anxiety worse. I weaned myself off too quickly - I still had a small cluster of seizures. I will never take a drug like that again.

[@Cathy-xi8cb]

Guess you didn't ask your MOM about the risks of do-it-yourself tapering. Prescribers have a license that requires them to know how to guide you safely. Her license should have sent you to your prescriber for guidance. Her license doesn't make her unable to tell you that doing it yourself is a poor choice.

[@greatriffishere]

I started taking Klonopin in 1993. I slowly started tappering off in 2019. I went from 5 mg a day to .5 mg a day in about 8 months. I had one bout with rebound anxiety when I tried to take less than .5 mg a day. I decided that i would take .5 a day and try to ween off at a later date because the episode of rebound anxiety was pretty bad. In 2022 i decided that I would tapper off Klonopin completely. I slowly tappered off .5 Klonopin and i'm now free. It took about 3 months to get off .5 Klonopin. No side effects. I feel the same. You can do this my friends !!

[@jimbob4456]

@@Cathy-xi8cb Most prescribers have a shocking lack of understanding on how to taper people.

[@TheReductionist]

Thank you, Doctor Marks. This was incredibly informative! 🙏

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Glad it was helpful!

[@helenh3972]

So helpful!! Please continue your valuable videos!!!!!! Thank you!

[@sebastienbrunois1728]

I've been taking Valium since 10 years now, and I also used to be addicted to alcohol. I have ASD, I am on 30/40mg per day of Valium and it's really, really difficult not to take it because my anxiety is unbearable... I wish one day I could wear off from Valium, but I confess that I have no hope, because I can't see any other solutions... It's really hard. At a time I was at 20mg per day but my anxiety increase with the time. I'm 27 now. I don't know what to do... I've been trying everything, like massages, ASMR, meditation... Nothing works. I hope one day I will be less anxious and feeling at least "normal"... Anyway, thank you for your videos, it helps me a lot ! :) Sébastien.

[@BR-lq6bk]

If you’ve ever had a head injury, whiplash or trauma get your atlas (c1) checked by an upper cervical specialist (not a regular chiropractor). A subluxation of the atlas or upper neck instability can aggravate symptoms

[@martharunstheworld]

Scary stuff! Years ago, I was prescribed Xanax for insomnia. I only took it once and I hated the way it made me feel the next morning. I stopped taking it immediately. As someone in their 60s, my sleep is great now; I'm an endurance runner, I eat very healthy, am at a healthy weight and I try to help others to become healthier! Dementia is no joke!

[@michaelthau1007]

Hello Martha Glad your doing well. Im 53 and suffer from chronic insomnia for 3 years caused by klonapin. Nothing seems to help my insomnia waking in the middle of the night. Was curious to see what helped your insomnia? God Bless you

[@ivanberdichevsky5679]

You're very lucky.

[@ericferrara3057]

Thank you so much! I have pretty bad GAD and have been on benzos for years. I’m working with my psychiatrist so slowly come off of Valium. Seeing this video made me feel more comfortable about it.

[@MarilynMayaMendoza]

Me too! I have had anxiety disorder my whole life and I’ve taken Klonopin for years but a low-dose. It really helps me to sleep which helps me not have panic attacks.

[@ericferrara3057]

@@MarilynMayaMendoza I’ve been on Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, and Valium at different times. Lexapro has helped, too, but I’ve found that I still get irritable easily and benzos help calm that down.

[@Laura-se5hc]

Interesting since this is exactly what I'm going through now. After several years of taking daily benzo and after contracting covid, I have been struggling with cognitive functioning. Thank you for helping to confirm.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome. I hope things clear up for you. 😊

[@tubo1812]

And why do you blame the benzo and not the COVID?

[@cassandra9699]

Research the Ashton Manual search safely quitting benzodiazepines. Best of luck to you it's a long road.

[@Laura-se5hc]

@@tubo1812 yes definitely but i think it was probably both

[@mariodutra656]

@@cassandra9699 regarding the Ashton manual most American doctors never heard of her or her manual and most likely would never use Valium that she suggests in substitution of the other benzos.I know more than my psychiatrist about benzodiazepines I had to learn on the internet and that’s the sad state of American mental health I am in withdrawal and alone my biggest regret was going on medications in the first place I don’t know if I’ll make death is more preferable May God have mercy on my soul

[@Brenhere08]

Dr Tracey thank you for your wonderful educational videos. You are truly amazing. Trying to learn as much as possible. Tim in Dublin Ireland.

[@universale3323]

I had to really trick my brain to come off benzos because I had OCD and the reassurance made it tough but i did it. I went down to dust with rivotril. By the way you can see that this doctor puts her heart and soul into her videos.

[@caiobabe]

Hello Dr. Marks. I'm just starting therapy to deal with new and recent anxiety. My therapist has prescribed...YOU! Yes, I am to watch selected videos for my session training. I just happened across this video, not prescribed, but because of the content. I've actually had a Xanax prescription for the last 10+ years and really never used it unless I was feeling a panic attack. Never got "addicted". I can take it or leave it sometimes going months without but I have to say, it works! My PCP tells me he is retiring soon and the next doctor will most assuredly take away the prescription due to recent studies as you have laid out. I won't be too happy if that happens.

[@lisamichaels4516]

Dr. Marks, please do a video on Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome and do a deeper dive into the horrible withdrawal process. I have taken klonopin daily for over 10 years. I have made several attempts to wean off slowly with my doctor's help. I discovered the term Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome and realized that I identify with the list of symptoms. Rebound anxiety was the least of my problems. I had shortness of breath to the point that I stopped going to yoga class because I would get short of breath and couldn't keep up (and I have been doing yoga for decades). My chest constantly felt tight and constricted. I started doing yoga at home so I could go at a slow pace, and when I got out of breath I could take breaks. I was also so tired everyday from dealing with the shortness of breath that I started going to bed right after dinner. I just had to go lay down because I was so tired. Then there was the digestive symptoms and sweating. These symptoms were so difficult, I had trouble getting through the day. It got to the point that I realized that if I'm going to maintain a job, and generally be able to function, I'm going to have to stay on at least a small dose of klonopin until I retire. I only take 1 mg a day so I'm already on a small dose. After witnessing these affects, my doctor allowed me to stop the weaning process. The pandemic had just started and she was uncomfortable about my decreased lung capacity. As soon as I increased it back to 1 mg, I was completely normal again.

[@gregwiele2502]

Thank you so very much-an honest doctor of med., it seems-have not had seen that very often.

[@nancymosby7369]

Dr. Marks! Do u have a private practice ur always helpful and spot on w/mental health content

[@wednesdayschild3627]

Yes. Long term antidepressant use also is implicated in heart disease. Medications are not a long term solution.

[@eternal3ntity230]

I’m seeing a new psychiatrist tomorrow since my old one dropped my insurance with only two days notice. I suffer from severe anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD…. Started benzos (mainly klonopin) in 2006 was unaware of the dangers of taking it all day everyday as prescribed, but no doctor or psychiatrist has really ever touched on that when I see them. I just know that nowadays, I can’t function without them and I’m scared shitless. I have thoughts from ending up in a mental institution for life to suicide. I know they’re bad cognitively, but nothing else helps the terror and fear these days. 😔

[@2AM_Radio]

I hope you're well my friend. I've been on them for 20 years. I've got alot of things wrong with me. I've been on every single medication they got out there. Kolonopin is the only thing that has helped me live a functional life. It's not even scientifically proven that it causes memory issues. If it works for you, find a Doctor that will let you stay on them. I'm blessed to have one. Without them, I wouldn't be here today.

[@jeffvarley9792]

Hi Dr Mark's. Great to hear from you I hope you are safe I love your videos.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks a million Jeff. Great to hear from you too. ❤️👍🏽

[@pcaul8156]

For anyone looking for alternatives to diazepines you could try any of the folllowing: Valerian root, Passionflower, GABA, lemon balm, CBD or Black seed oil. Some of these work on the same receptors and neurotransmitters that diazapines do but with little to no side-effects.

[@tanyamcghee3922]

Dr told Me Marijuana Will Do Same As The Pills. So do Not take pills with marijuana.

[@friendlyneighborhoodplagueDR]

Tried many of them. All it is is snake oil

[@sl3724]

What about memory issues with long term use of medications like lithium, hydroxizine, other anti psychotics?

[@erichjess]

I absolutely love your educational videos and like to thank you for this contribution. Regarding your book "Why am I so anxious?", I do not understand why the kindle edition of you book costs US$ 11.99 in the U.S. but US$ 21.37 for me in Peru .... I have never had a difference in price for kindle books before. I only purchase my books through kindle as to save paper and shipping (plus the convenience to have nearly all my books on one device)

[@lillybits9726]

Thank you for this video, and all the others that you do.

[@blouburkette]

My father has been on Benzos since he was 17, he is now 58. He lives with my grandparents and he is completely out of control. He takes 4 pills a day and is constantly flying from sedated to raging monster daily. I cannot convince them that he needs to go off the meds. (Obviously with doctor supervision over the course of years, as suggested here). Because they and him are convinced he needs it. He goes into a non-stop panic attack if we ever talk about reducing his dose. The drugs are insanely serious folks, only to be used when life is in danger. Just my personal piece.

[@greg9336]

Great work Doc!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thank you!

[@spreest9537]

I have been on Xanax for eight years now and slowly am starting to ween off it. I really hope my thinking goes back to normal. Thank you so much for the informative video, I love your videos and your calm presence!

[@shaheennayfeh17]

Does Xanax increase weight?!?

[@spreest9537]

@@shaheennayfeh17 It didn't in me, why? I can't speak for everyone of course.

[@mohamadayyash4633]

Did you stopped taking it ?

[@Youser999]

Thank you for the video, Dr. Marks. I've been wanting to hear about this topic for a while! Can you please also consider doing a video on allergy and depression medications linked to increased risk of Alzheimer's? And also maybe Gabapentin? It's similar to benzos, affecting GABA, but for some reason isn't as strongly linked to Alzheimer's.

[@echase416]

Drugs that cause sedation or ‘dryness’ (incl alcohol) are substances are some to watch out for…

[@elieose1568]

I love you!!!!! Your awesome I really like the up to date videos thank you 😊

[@collinlovas]

So informative. Thank you!

[@gavindownes2213]

great video. i was worried that someone had found out that it does cause damage and that it was permanent

[@GusttavoAhr]

Very helpful video! Thanks doc! 😃😃💪

[@osirismarbles5177]

Very helpful. Wish I could train under you!

[@alicebarion3158]

Hiiii Dr Tracy! Can you talk about the pharmacogenomic (pharmacogenetic??) tests? Thank you so much!!!

[@Randi19196]

Thank you for this video. I am wondering whether the dosage is also significant in the development of changes in the brain?

[@Mtz2604]

I found out that everything we deal with requires some kind of work around. I deal with that short term memory loss because I use Clonazepam daily as part of my treatment for the coexisting and chronic mental health conditions that I have. I use post-its, little notepads, reminders for my meds and appointments, (actually, I'm a little bit forgetful since I was little) so writing things as reminders or lists for tasks and to track the progress of some stuff helps me a lot. Place things like my keys in the same place helps a lot. Creating habits to help me out with the side effects I deal with is what saves me from them.

[@Rovsau]

Hello. I've lost and abandoned a fair bit of friends due to them using benzodiazepines. I have some insight into how it affects conscious thought-processes, from their testament, and my observation. It would make for some good balance, if you could make a video about some of the challenges with medication side-effects. Statistics, personality changes, interpersonal relationships, workplace and an example story of someone who received benzos by prescription, but spiraled down after taking a few too many or mixed it with alcohol. Patients have a need to learn to recognize the signs, and more importantly: learn what to do if they find themselves in that situation.

[@Johnelhadjmi]

I forgot why i was watching this video as i listen to Dr Davis talk.

[@amenhotep7704]

Thank you my beautiful Tracey.

[@M.j.7]

I had a doctor back in 2018 take me off benzodiazepines cold turkey after being on them for 5 years…it was traumatizing and I feel like I should look into suing for malpractice if it’s not too late so it doesn’t happen to other people… or keep happening to them.

[@catherinewilson1079]

That doctor was an idiot!

[@hollyhayes9640]

It's pretty common medical knowledge not to do that. I believe that this is malpractice. I'm not even a doctor, and even I know how dangerous that can be. Yikes. 😬

[@hnewman9296]

Same thing happened to me in 2018. I'm still not 100% yet. Hope you're feeling better 🙂

[@reneecalvin2158]

I was taking Ativan for about 2 months, and was put through a 5 day withdrawal that caused me to go through something that is worse than a nightmare. Criminal what these drugs do to people. Took me years to feel myself again.

[@wulfsorenson8859]

You should know you don’t take benzos daily.

[@KytexEdits]

If you had 5 days of withdrawals that means you had it (relatively) easy. If you were really severely dependent you'd feel about twice as bad as that... for a month, and then maybe that bad for another month. I've seen it in a family member, it's horrible. Good thing you learned in such a relatively harmless way, some people don't stop until they're in serious trouble, aka many times the amount you took.

[@reneecalvin2158]

@@Newlife-ol6pk 0.5 at night for 2 months only.

[@reneecalvin2158]

@@wulfsorenson8859 Doctors should know. Very dangerous drug to be handing out like candy

[@reneecalvin2158]

@@KytexEdits took me over a year to feel functionable Unbelievable suffering.

[@SS-in1ts]

I’m young and used them for a couple of years and I have memory gaps that scare me. It’s not like I forget and then remember. I actually forget and can’t even picture what I experienced when family says “Remember (blank) from yesterday?” And I have no recollection or image in my mind at all- and that freaks me out. It’s been about a year or a little more since I stopped and I’m still forgetful, it’s a little better but not great. It did help me face my anxiety fears and I’m better but I’m still easily triggered. I can’t tell if I regret taking it or not, there are pros and cons to both. I hope I don’t get dementia 🙏🙏🙏

[@maroineamini7563]

Hi Dr.Tracey Marks, would you like to do a video about somatization disorder and his solution please 🙏 ? Thank you very much

[@c.brownell8618]

Thank you. This is very helpful 👌👍.

[@MegaGameXtreme]

I'm currently working on lessening my klonopin use, since for the past year I've been taking it about twice a week for anxiety. It isn't much but I've noticed not feeling as sharp as I used to and I'm always struggling with brain fog and just generally not feeling like myself and I'm only 26. This was a great video that put a lot in perspective for me!

[@cassandra9699]

Research the Ashton Manual safely get off benzodiazepines.

[@fishermc6pack]

If it makes you feel any better. You’re more than likely not experiencing an overall decline in cognitive function by only taking it twice a week.

[@MegaGameXtreme]

@@fishermc6pack I've considered that too but I'm also known for having weird interactions with mediaction. It could be a genetic thing but I need to get tested for it first.

[@KytexEdits]

If you feel like that while the benzo is working that makes sense, however if you feel that way 3/4 days after then it's almost certainly you being anxious about it and the anxiety causing brain fog. That being said do use it as little as possible, I'm just confused about giving out Klonopin on an "as needed" basis since it has an EXTREMELY long duration, like 10-12+ hours vs valium at 6-8, or xanax at about 4-6. That's why usually Klonopins are prescribed daily, it lasts all day anyways.

[@artspark7697]

Klonopin disrupts rem sleep ..so if your not getting restful sleep that could do it. Xanax does not affect rem sleep.

[@j.c.4145]

Dr. Marks, I very much appreciate your videos. One thing which you might wish to consider is a a neurology discussion on the differences in the brains GABA receptors reaction to metabolized medications via the hepatic P450 enzymes, particularly CYP3A4, and cross-medication inducer and inhibitor conflicts. For example, Clonazepam's effects can be either enhanced or reduced via shared medication use of the same CYP3A4 enzyme substrate with each drugs metabolites. Clonazepam is prescribed for me because I seemed to have inherited a genetic predisposition for Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). But I also take other GABA receptor medication which more powerfully induce CYP3A4 activity of the metabolites which cross the blood brain membrane. Accordingly, I have to research all of my meds for cross-hepatic enzyme interactions. Additionally, this is why ethanol of any kind, although it primarily uses a different CYP substrate for metabolism should not be taken with benzodiazapines as the synergy intensifies the sedation affect of such medications, and more dangerously, barbiturates. As you should know, "the dose makes the poison." But additionally strong cross metabolite CYP inducers (e.g., CYP2D6 and CYP1A2) can "make the poison," too. If people depend on most prescribers or pharmacists to warn about hepatic enzyme substrate inducer/inhibitor risks, they are delusional. Odds are, you may not as well. People who push pills without understanding everything a person is taking/using, are partly to blame for accidental overdose deaths. Of course, Fentanyl is the chief killer with or without any concomitant use of any medication or substance. Enough said.

[@j.c.4145]

Dr. Elaine Morefield wrote this to me in response to my posted comments (former acting Regulatory head of the FDA , and whose IQ I tested (using CIA protocols) at an IQ level of 183, an industrial pharmacist, Ph.D. graduate from Purdue University): "So true."

[@biniaminamerica]

Thanks Dr Tracy for all your education, and it is helpful. How can you wean off lithium?

[@e12d27]

Straight up, yes!

[@MatthewOhioKettering]

Thanks for the videos.

[@julieme66]

What about Gabapentin? Does it cause long term Dementia? It sure seem to cause memory issues while taking it for nerve pain. Thank you for your videos!!

[@amysinger2201]

I lost 2 yrs of my life to Benzos, I don't remember it, its gone, and it probably took about 2 yrs before the brain fog lifted. One neurologist told me that it destroys your stage 4 sleep, which my sleep study bore out, I experienced no stage 4 sleep while on benzos (sorry, I can't find a ref). I have a lot of anger about it because I actively had concerns the entire 2 yrs and used the research to communicate with my dr, but my Dr ignored me because I am the patient. Thank you for emphasizing the need for tapering!!! I believe all Psychopharmacology need to be tapered, but have been told more than once that you can go cold turkey and more than once I've been incredibly ill. With benzos I had to go AMA and it was the right decision (based on research and a second opinion)! I am still with the same Dr because it is MT and there are 3 in my town of 90,000 people. Thank Dr. Tracey Marks for making high quality, researched videos we can trust. My mom is a 73 yr old retired RN who has always reinforced patient self-advocacy with, "you doctor may have 1000s of patients, you have 1, know your shit" Thank you for making it easy to educate myself about myself

[@tommays56]

I was stared on Klonopin when I was 35 to treat the side effects of Prozac and after 29 years needed 4mg and 10mg of Ambien and it wasn’t enough It took a year to get off and nothing could describe how bad the withdrawal was I was done with it BUT it really wasn’t done with me even after over 1 year and ultimately I had to start taking Temazepam 30 as I was afraid to leave the house and this in combination with Trazodone and Mirtazapine has really given me good quality of life again as this helps me stay in a good place to deal with my CLL and reverse left shoulder replacement

[@ozzy.....7383]

I have heard the amount of time you have been on drugs is the time you should take to taper. Don’t rush. Trust the process

[@LeasKobe]

Can you make a video of withdrawal symptoms from long term use of benzos?

[@loukishapaigejenkins1303]

You are AWESOME! Thanks so much!

[@2075vj]

Dr. Marks, thanks for sharing. I’ve been taking 25 mg of amitriptyline for about a year now. It does help with sleep and I just want to know if you can share your opinion on it and if it does anything to the brain that’s negative. I would really appreciate it thanks for all your work.

[@darrellleeper7534]

I stopped them year I have taken them since my late teens , I have problems I see a doc now but I like to follow you ,you have helped me greatly I will mention you to my Dr . ❤

[@meepster_1501]

Can you make a video about SSRIs? Zoloft helps my anxiety very well but since I’ve been taking it I’ve noticed a decline in my memory and a lessened intensity of emotions.

[@loriallen67]

I have Klonopin….. I refuse to take it regularly. My doc says “emergency” only. I am terrified of addiction/tolerance.

[@judylee1860]

The medical / pharmaceutical / FDA fields are beyond incompetent. A bunch of flipping idiots. Thank you, Dr Tracy. I am absolutely effing speechless.

[@stevenlucassmith3730]

I have been on klonopin 3mg a day for 9 years and 15 mg of temazepam and I have noticed I’m not as sharp as I used to be at all really upsetting to me but I will admit I’m too scared to stop them and withdrawal. And even knowing the risk factors I’m still not willing to stop. It can be very helpful yet hurtful.

[@hannahhill7478]

I use benzos here and there as needed for a few years, but thankfully not every day. I do however feel that I have this mental fog and decline since my teens when I first started taking SSRIs. Do they also cause this? My mental abilities haven’t been the same since I began taking them many many years ago

[@kiwi007]

Just a word of caution with them, I have Fibromyalgia and developed muscle spasms. Dr put me on Lorazepam to relax muscles. The side effects were immediate, plunged me into the most horrible depression. Consequently will never use again, did nothing for spasms either.

[@lissyperez4299]

Great info

[@stephw6046]

I would be interested in a study on benzos vs. gabapentin to treat breakthrough and chronic anxiety. I haven't found much on the subject. Furthermore, as a pharm tech, I see SO many people on benzos and narcotic pain meds. Gabapentin isn't a controlled med in my state. Anecdotally, I have seen it work for people with anxiety, with no benzo side effects! :) Thank you for another wonderfully informative video, Dr. Marks!

[@lisamichaels4516]

I have used gabapentin for anxiety, and when I first started it, I thought it was a miracle drug because I noticed that I could get by on a slightly lower dose of klonopin. I thought this could be my opportunity to wean off the benzo. Unfortunately, I discovered that even on a very low dose of gabapentin (100 mg once a day), I was very impaired at work and while driving. It also made me extremely constipated.

[@christopherlee627]

From what I understand of the situation in Australia, I suspect that the rise in prescriptions of lyrica will become the next prescribing scandal - over a tenfold increase in a decade. They're being handed out in the misguided belief that they are better than opioids, which in many respects they may be, but without any understanding that they come with just as many problems and are open to misuse.

[@lisamichaels4516]

@@christopherlee627 Yes, totally agree. Lyrica is another addictive drug.

[@AP-nx6xo]

Hello… I’m weaning off klonopin. I’m using gabapentin to help me. I have been on klonopin for 30 years I take it for ptsd. I’m afraid of it. It’s going to take a couple years I would imagine to get it out of my system and to feel right

[@stephw6046]

@@AP-nx6xo I wish you all the best. I hope it goes well.

[@kurtpjxhmac20]

Even after a low dose of Valium, the days after my cognitive functions were reduced drastically along with my memory and my vision was darker, this is only from a very short term use less than 3 weeks. We desperately need new research into effective fast acting anti anxiety medication so benzos can be replaced

[@HakeemKaree]

Idk about benzos but since Covid there's a lot of cognitive decline going around. I have ADHD and its been a million times worse since the pandemic. A lot of people in the support group I'm in have reported the same.

[@kerrynight3271]

Did the people complaining of cognitive decline have Covid or was it just the whole stressful experience of the pandemic? Thanks. Good luck to you.

[@HakeemKaree]

@@kerrynight3271 From what I've gathered the majority actually had COVID but there was also a decent amount that sited just the overall stress of it all as well. I would agree that its both because the stress definitely impacted me as it went on but once I actually got COVID (in late 2021) my brain has not felt the same since.

[@kerrynight3271]

@@HakeemKaree Thank you so much for responding. People are really suffering. I sure hope things work out for you. I'm sure you know about exercise and foods like berries being good for the brain, but I wanted to mention it anyway. Again, I wish you good luck.

[@HakeemKaree]

@@kerrynight3271 I know I just have to get better about actually doing it and eating them lol

[@jorgeegrojjorge]

Great video thank you!

[@PraveenSrJ01]

I will definitely check out that book 📕 Why Am I So Anxious. That is likely because of my very unhappy parents and my bipolar mom who is forcing me to get married and I rejected it so many times since my first failed arranged marriage.

[@charlenehuman8665]

Good day Dr. How long will you suggest to take to go off 800mg Epitec for seizures?