Sleep Meds: Benzodiazepines | What You Need to Know

This video continues our series on sleep videos and begins our coverage on sleep medications. Our series will cover the various categories of sleep medications that are commonly prescribed in America, beginning with today's video on benzodiazepines. You probably are already familiar with the names of several benzodiazpines:
alprazolam aka Xanax
lorazepam aka Ativan
clonazepam aka Klonopin
diazepam aka Valium
Today, we will have a candid discussion on the potential risks and pitfalls of chronic usage of benzodiazepines and in particular highlight the risk of potential risk of developing a tolerance and dependence on benzodiazepines and how that can lead to withdrawal effects.
The point of this video is not to be judgmental or demonize the usage of benzodiazepines. As a psychiatrist, I prescribe them and utilize them as a tool. But, the purpose is to help viewers become as informed and educated about the facts and potential risks of what they are putting into their bodies so you can make the most informed decisions about your health as possible.
If you haven't already, please check out my video on sleep hygiene and sleep tips. And please subscribe and stay tuned for followup videos on other categories of sleep medications as well.
Thank you for your support and encouragement as always.
~Dr. Andrew Kim MD
Board Certified Psychiatrist
Remember this video is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes and should NOT be taken as personal medical advice. I am NOT your doctor.
Please submit other educational topics and questions you would like to hear me discuss in upcoming videos, video podcasts, and my "Ask Dr. Kim" series. Please submit general topic requests or questions. Please do not submit specific, personal medical questions, as I will not respond to those, as I am not your doctor.
Let's connect:
IG: / andrewkimmd - @AndrewKimMD
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Website & Blog: andrewkimMD.com
** The information in this video, including but not limited to, videos, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this video channel and its affiliated websites (such as AndrewKimMD.com) are for informational and entertainment purposes only. No material on this channel is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read or seen on this website or its affiliated social media sites & channels. **
**Disclosures: At the time of creating this video, Dr. Andrew Kim M.D. was an independent contractor on the Janssen Speakers Bureau and works as a Principal Investigator on FDA clinical trials for pharmaceutical sponsors. **

[@sandywhat2429]

I was delusional enough to think that drs would CARE or WANT me to survive the benzo withdrawal. They did not. They made it very clear, that my life was expendable. Their main concern was to protect themselves. I actually was delusional.

[@pj0000007]

I am not surprised. Drs. are like anyone else - self-interest above all else, except in exceptional cases and those dedicated Drs are rare but I know a couple. Benzos require a lot of understanding and knowledge and most Drs. just do not have the time or interest to learn or to be patient.

[@sandywhat2429]

@@pj0000007 Actually I don't agree with you that all people think that way. Some people are willing to take a bullet for others that they've chosen to serve and protect. The rest, I agree with.

[@fotone]

@@sandywhat2429 True, it depends on person’s morals. On the subject above, not only what you said, but also many doctors do not care you will get addicted and prescribe long-term use of benzos light handed. I’ve used clonazepam for the last 6 years following one simple rule - only per need, and no more than 3 days in a row with a mandatory week with zero use after that.

[@davidblair3845]

Nope they sure don't...neither did the ER...they pumped me full of Ativan after 2 weeks off and sent me home to start all over without any to take home just enough so I didn't die on their shift.....9 month off feel human again!

[@sandywhat2429]

@@fotone Yeah, youre doing it that was ONLY because you clearly have some knowledge about dependancy. Most of us had no knowledge. Now, because WE have educated so many people they are being more careful.

[@MsAlien911]

My best friend had covid twice, both times ended up in hosp. For some reason, they cut her benzo, that she'd been in for 40 years, and put her on morphine, which she HATED, she spent her last 2 weeks not feeling like herself at all, being panicy and unable to think properly, and just wanted her mojo back. I think her sudden withdrawal killed her, not the covid. RIP trisha

[@imdigital1986]

This is very sad. It is possible that the sudden stoppage of the medication made it worse. ppl have to understand that a benzo or narcotic, that a patient was on for a long time cannot be cut off cold turkey. They have to stop slowly tapering off. Lowering dosage.

[@freedomwarrior5087]

Benzodiazepines always need to be tapered slowly and even slower if on them for a long period of time. Going cold turkey is very dangerous and can be lethal.

[@marinalina6348]

Omg that's terrible... They probably did that bc there was a protocol about not mixing benzos and opiates which will be fatal...they thought it was more risky or could be found liable if they had given her both

[@larissa_7729]

Oh I'm sure it did

[@sl4983]

They killed her

[@sandywhat2429]

I was on benzos for 40 years. Withdrawal almost killed me numerous times. My Drs gave me ZERO information or informed consent. Nor did they tell me the potential horror and damage to the body that could happen weaning off.

[@johnronalter7522]

20 years and i will do anything to not go in withdrawl it's nuts

[@sandywhat2429]

@@johnronalter7522 ❤️🙏

[@johnronalter7522]

yes thats exacty where i am i found youtube vids that basically said doctors don't hp to treat this its on my facebook

[@johnronalter7522]

how did you stop taking them

[@sandywhat2429]

@@johnronalter7522 Most of them have no clue. Nor do they inform us that we need to carefully and slowly taper off of them. I weaned but it was far too fast, I was in acute withdrawal, it resulted in horrific injury. Drs were most unhelpful. It almost killed me. Hope you make out okay.

[@mikeberger1688]

I watched your entire video and it's a great education. Well done and thanks for eliminating unnecessary content that is so common on youtube.

[@nicholaswoodman3241]

Appreciate the proffessionality in every explanation. Great video! Very Informative!

[@michelleschmitt3926]

I appreciate your bluntness. Thank you.

[@Ffsdevgj]

What a great video on the subject. Very explainable. Thank you Doc.

[@artshahnazarianesq.6774]

Excellent information extremely well presented! Very much appreciated by yours truly and undoubtedly many others!

[@neojibreil2032]

You're always awesome and smart, Dr. Kim. Thanks for sharing this info.

[@ngoannguyen7758]

Thanks so much! Waiting to watch more your videos!

[@rebeccaslater1398]

Very well presented and honest and relatable . Thankyou

[@jbwhetstone]

I needed you and this video before I got on a benzo last year. I hit tolerance in just 3 months. Now I'm 6.5 months into a loooong taper with awful daily symptoms. Thank you for putting out a warning, Dr. Kim. It is much needed and way too absent across the medical field.

[@bigbad_]

Use marijuana bro best option only

[@elisaacello592]

​@@bigbad_ I personally wouldn't recommend it, if you don't know how you react to marijuana, Now is Not the time to find out. Your whole CNS is shot and extremely sensitive. It can also send someone into an awful panic attack, which would be extremely painful mentally, especially on top of benzo withdrawal. I just had to throw my opinion in the mix, because I was pressured into trying it for my GAD after stopping benzos.. it was Horrifying. I locked myself in the bathroom, trying to calm myself down with breathing exercises, lying on my left side praying to God to make it stop and was convinced I was dying... I wouldn't play around with Any new substances while in benzo withdrawal or protracted withdrawal. Good luck to anyone out here tapering and/or in benzo withdrawal ❤🙏 GOD BLESS ❤🙏

[@MoreCoffeePlease.]

Hi Josh. I hope this comment finds you healthy and well, one year later.

[@karinadiaz6467]

Amén! God please help us​@@elisaacello592

[@purpleiris4183]

This is the best information.

[@andreasciro6311]

This Dr. is terrific

[@pennwoman]

Brilliant explanation.

[@hendrxfn]

Very informative Dr. Thanks

[@lalamullen]

Just got prescribed one of these and found your video. SO helpful & realistic without making me panicked or scared. Thank you!

[@fonzarellyplay370]

Are you on them still? How are you doing on them ?

[@yes55504]

Oh no.... you better be extremely careful. The harm benzos can do is enormous

[@charleswomack2166]

Excellent video Dr. Kim! I used to have a prescription for Valium, but I kind of relapsed into drinking alcohol. Now I only use them before I go to the dentist.

[@yehyeh5066]

Great informative video

[@MiG287]

Great video.

[@AndrewKimMD]

Thanks for the visit

[@CoachKen10]

Great video!

[@jeandepradines8115]

Thanku verywell put across!

[@kathleenwharton2139]

Thank You..Dr. Kim! You are the best one I have every heard on benzos. A doctor gave them to me many years ago..they helped me function..but after 20 years I withdrew in about 8 months. I now have extreme muscle contractions due to a TIA and they are the only thing that helps. Lorazapam has really been helpful to me..but I understand the dependence thing! 😊❤

[@micktbaby]

So interesting that you a suggesting consult with your Dr about tapering. Mine suggested a one month 25% per week. Way too fast. She was without any knowledge on how to do this correctly, or any empathy regarding the situation of prescribed physical dependency. My solution was to educate myself. I will completely conceal what my tapering plan is for fear that my prescription will be stopped. I really don’t want to experience cold turkey. From what I have extensively read the majority of physicians are just like her. You sir are a unique exception recommending an individualized plan….your patients are quite fortunate.

[@srabchun]

After being on a bezo (clobazam)for 2.5 years for seizures, I wanted off. It caused me to have moments where I'd experience temporary amnesia. I also had no libido. And no sense of self. I just felt like I was existing. I titrated off of it over a 2 month period. Using a good quality cbd at night, and a multi cannabinoid that includes delta8 thc in the day, seems to help with the withdraw symptoms. Not 100%, but both have therapeutic effects that make the withdrawal symptoms tolerable.

[@laurastone7409]

Thank you for sharing info with this community. I have been doing slow taper for a year and it was really rough at first but I think I am leveling out and I am super excited has been lots of days of non-functioning but overall I think the slow tapering is working out OK if I start to feel too many withdrawals I just microdose and one day I will be completely free! I still don’t know how to sleep very well I have to listen to soft music or sleep talk down videos to help me relax and I have to have complete darkvery light sensitive. Continued prayers for everyone who has been through this and going through this definitely a big shift on many levels keeping the faith!

[@shyaaammeneen63]

Extremely usefu information. Sharing a method to relax. To feel better reduce negative thoughts and overthinking. Avoid comparing with others, reduce negative social media and avoid constipation as it affects the mind instantly. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. To relax sit on a chair or lie down, neck straight, eyes closed and observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 5-10-15 minutes or more. Never meditate with expectations but with awareness. Don’t fight your thoughts. With daily practice the mind will relax. No deep breathing needed. Observe your breath sensations before sleep, in college, at work, taking a walk, when reading, etc.etc. Like me, make this a lifetime daily habit to have a better life. Best wishes--Counsellor.

[@sawamichelle]

If your problems are internal (like negative thoughts), you can do this, but it doesn't help if you only have external stressors (like constant attacks), no internal issues.

[@shyaaammeneen63]

​@@sawamichelle If we feed trash in the mind trash will come out. Please note that internal and external issues are closely related and if they are not ok leads to psychosomatic problems which has become very common all over the world. In life there are only 2 problems mind and the body. If these are under your control life is fine. Today I am enjoying life because I am following the rules and breath observing practice since the last 15 years--which I mentioned in my msg. Daily morning prayer and morning sunlight walks has also helped me. Solid determination is needed. Never meditate with expectations but with self-awareness. Best wishes for a great life. Counsellor.

[@sr2291]

Good advice.

[@mvann5]

Very good info Dr. Kim. My Dr told me none of this 40 years ago. But what do people who were not great on them but way worse off do? The damage is unreal. Mirtazapine, btw, is just as bad as any benzodiazepine and triggered all my problems.

[@paulbillington8290]

Are you sure about mirtazapine mate, thats what they,ve give me to help me come off valium, they seem to help me drop off but they are far to strong, i feel dazed all day horrible!!!

[@mvann5]

@@paulbillington8290 Well mirtaz. destroyed me. I do know that it is often a bad mix with a benzodiazepine. If it works for you, good, just be careful!

[@irishtino1595]

I've taken clonazepam for 8 to 10 years daily at low dose .5mg twice a day. It worked great for panic. I have been happy with it, but it definitely has lost its efficacy over the last 5 years. I have tried to discontinue use under doctors supervision, had to stop because of anxiety rising up. The key is to go very slowly, the CDC says .5mg reduction every 4(?) weeks. Some people have to go much slower .25mg.

[@fonzarellyplay370]

Wait. You had to stop because your anxiety is raising up? How are you doing now?

[@sl4983]

Can you tell us what the CDC page on that is?

[@othirifacts1640]

I'm taking 0.25 mg of clonazepam.

[@marionwest3661]

Doctors in the U.K. are wanting you to stop taking Benzos. They expect you to just stop and go onto anti depressants instead. No understanding at all about how hard withdrawal symptoms are. When I was in hospital for an operation, they took me off these for the whole week I was incarcerated. I didn’t sleep at all, felt dreadful, and had chronic side effects. If you haven’t experienced chronic insomnia, you have little empathy with the dreadfulness and despair. Doctors should have more training on this topic.

[@keetonplace]

I have been unable to fall asleep naturally for many years. Have been on flurazapam for years, and did well. Never upped the dose. Then it was discontinued and I am crazy. It comes back by another company in Dec. I don't know if I'll make it. It has been good to me for sleep. All that's discussed here is staying on or getting off. Not NO DRUG available. Not mentioned. No, people do not get not being able to sleep! All my friends sleep very well. It is a horror not sleeping. Brings on anxiety.

[@nanaprn7809]

OK you've scared the hell out of me. How do I get off this? Been on 1 mg for years. Thanks for this video.

[@thomaslau9631]

What are the dosage Dr. Kim is talking about? I take 0.25mg daily in the daytime and 0.5mg Rivotril, increased to 1 mg in a month at bedtime? I hate the feelings of wearing too early in the morning. Am I at risk now?

[@director2bob]

That was excellent info. Thanks Doc. I am currently day 8 off benzos (valium & xanax) and day 14 off hydrocodone and can barely sleep even with alcohol & cannabis. I am down to a 6 pack a night (very low for me because i used to have 10 to 12 drinks a night). So going to start tapering down to 5 drinks, 4 drinks etc. You mention synergy effect. My body was so dependant on combo of alcohol, benzos and opioids it feels like I will never sleep again even with alcohol. This sucks.

[@shirleyscrooby805]

We will get there, we will get better. Have you tried cannabis tea?

[@Stolencamaro]

U need professional help. Or god be with u going cold turkey

[@simoncheng3099]

@@shirleyscrooby805 B

[@indigenoussober407]

I pray that you have found your balance and peace Bob.

[@ryanb9344]

Coming off both of those at the same time sounds dangerous, I’d personally taper off of one then after a month or two taper off the other

[@princesshaileyella5052]

Should do video on zopliclone

[@JohnDoe-ns9yo]

Been on temazepam 30 for a month horrible withdrawal symptoms during day. Would switching to klonopin for nighttime only be better since it’s half life is longer? Also when I decide to get off would that be a better alternative since it’s hard to taper off of temazepam because of the limited dosages, 30 15 and 7.5 also they are in capsules.

[@jimbrown678]

Heed the warning. The effects of Benzodiazepine is not to be taken lightly.

[@allencollins6031]

He'll yeah truth

[@Year_Of_The_Cat]

“Benzodiazepines, are not to be taken lightly.” This is correct. They’re to be taken heavily! Freaking fantastic are the little things! 🍷💊🫠🤤🥱😴

[@user-dq3fi5qs9e]

Bravo

[@m.m.m.c.a.k.e]

Appreciate the research videos! Abuse potential nil, no history. Provides relief for dyspnea which happens up to a few times per day. W/o, low dose benzo require max dose fluticasone propionate/salmeterol and several uses of salbutamol daily. Failed amitriptyline, venlafaxine, duloxetine, escitalopram, sertraline. Mirtazapine will likely fail, not sure yet. Thoughts?

[@Shattered-Realm]

I just failed duloxetine and mirtazpine. To get off a Z drug - misuse (2 pills a night) The side effects were horrible even 5 weeks in a felt foggy, muddled constipated, diarrhea and stated having panic attacks (FIRST IN MY LIFE) which resolved within 2 days of stopping SSRI poison. I tried just one pill of xanax 0.5 mg and felt ZEN all the panic instantly melted away as If I'd been meditating with buddhist months for a few weeks. I felt alive and focused. it's been 24 hours since that xanax dose and another 24 hours for more mirtazepine and duloxetine to leave my system. Got perfect sleep too. and caught a midday nap which is something I was never capable of on the Z drugs. The Xanax is probably already out and I still fee like back to my old self I don't think I'll need another xanax but I will carry the pill bottle with me for another week or two in case I go through SSRI withdrawal meltdown after 5 weeks of use. The psych told me to press on and that I'd see results in 4-6 weeks but during week 5 things started getting worse and worse so I said fuck it. Responsible use seems like a valid option I still have 29 of the 30 pills. I have access to more but I am vary and cautious due to all the horror stories of detox.

[@jimmydsd1706]

Wat supplements can we take while withdrawal from benzos

[@christiansallee427]

I Take Oxazepam 30mg through the day time 2xs or bid a day prn , Flurazepam 30mg at night-time for sleep.

[@keetonplace]

I suppose you know Flurazapam is discontinued, but will return in Dec by another company. It's what I've been on for sleep for years. I am going crazy. Nothing else has worked for me. I have tried many.

[@curtisvandall4689]

They also help alot. For alcohol withdrawal

[@gorandacic7152]

My doctor has prescribed me trazodone (150mg) and lorazepam (1.25mg) for sleep. I’ve been avoiding taking lorazepam for this reason of not developing a tolerance. But, since it was my regular therapy I started taking it regularly few months ago. And now I see the same dose doesn’t have the same effect, and even though I took my trazodone I still need that lorazepam to ‘knock me off’. Now that you said that lorazepam is like alcohol I’m worried. My doctor hasn’t warned me about this. Sorry for the long comment, I’ll speak with my doctor soon. Keep up the great work! 👍🏻

[@sunnyromano6862]

You can find the Ashton Manuel on line to learn how to taper of benzos slowly. Never cold turkey.

[@allencollins6031]

Run for your life with benzo. Just run.

[@paulbillington8290]

Goran does the trazodone make you sleep, i rung the doctors to help me get off valium and thats what he was going to prescribe me, will it help??

[@donnabittner69]

@@paulbillington8290, do not even think about trazadone!

[@paulbillington8290]

@@donnabittner69 why is it not worth it donna?

[@PisceanDreams-je6vo]

All I know is, i have seen horror stories from people who suffer from insomnia, anxiety and depression.....and as soon as they use xanax correctly for a short period, they can overcome all that and live a miracle life to the one they lived before. Not being able to sleep, IS ACTUALLY A HUGE PROBLEM IN TODAYS WORLD AND CAUSES SO MANY SEVERE SITUATIONS AND HORRIBLE AND HORRIFIC SITUATIONS! Usually those who TRULY KNOW they need xanax, make them work the right way. And the last thing ill say is imagine feeling like your whole body has 100 tons of weight on you that equals ANXIETY......Then IMAGINE feeling all that weight just absolutely MELTING OFF YOU after you take a pill. That is exactly what a Xanax does when you actually really need it.

[@chrisqui6685]

I've heard on these videos short term " long term. Without any definition. What is considered short term for Klonopin? Thank you

[@wayneadler3451]

I think there only supposed to be used for 14 days max.

[@justinebourke9449]

What is shortterm use? How long?

[@Peanutbutter44_ur12]

Hi Dr., how do I talk to my Dr about dependency and withdrawal? I have been on klonopin and withdrew before and I'm on them again but want off or to just take as needed. I'm afraid my Dr will quick taper and done. This happened last time. It was horrible. I afraid if I mention I have developed a tolerance to them he will quick taper and done. Same way if I want off. They have helped me alot in the past 7 years but I am definitely psychologically dependent on them. I take .5 kpin x2 a day which is less then I used to take. Is that dosage that severe that I can't just slow taper myself? How do I calm myself from that need for my next dose. I don't drink. Is there any otc supplement that can help? TYIA

[@sharon8121]

Benzos are very helpful for anxiety. I appreciate that you have a open mind. They safe me from anxiety attacks. But insomnia I use trazodone. It works better as benzodiazepines relax me but don't put me to sleep. Including ambien.

[@aquarius113]

Ive insomnia any meds that good.

[@paulbillington8290]

Your right sharon valium was the only thing that took my anxiety away and been on it two years but the stories i read have scared me into tapering off, if they were safe i,d stay on them for life cos they are the only thing that honestly work for anxiety

[@Coasterdude02149]

@@paulbillington8290 How much are you taking and has your dose increased since you started? How long have you gone without taking it and how do you feel? I've been on Valium for 16 years now for severe anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD. I take 5 mg when needed, can take up to 15 mg a day as needed but I've never taken them every day. I thought for sure after 16 years I must be physically dependent on them but moved all the way down the East coast last summer. For the first time in 16 years, I found I didn't need it and didn't take them. It wasn't a conscious choice, I just realised one day "Hey, I'ev not taken a Valium in a month" That went on for 6 months. Then my spouse and I would have fights here and there and I found myself reaching for it again. Maybe I'm lucky, but I never felt like I HAD to take it and it was a surprise to me to find I hadn't taken it in so long. What I'm getting at is every person is different. As long as you weren't overdoing it, you might be safe. Talk to your doctor. A lot has to do with your body chemistry, how much you were taking and for how long. I never increased from the 5 MG. I feel very VERY fortunate. My best thoughts are with you.

[@paulbillington8290]

@@Coasterdude02149 Thankyou for that response, i,m taking between 40 and 60 mg a night just for sleep and anxiety but it,s street bought, our docs over here won,t prescribe them which makes it harder cos you,ve got to find a supply somewhere, i,m hopefully going to try taper very soon i think cold turkey might be a bit intense on that dosage what do you think?

[@paulbillington8290]

@@Coasterdude02149 Ok thanks for that response

[@LB-xk6fk]

Thank you so very much. Your in depth explanation is helpful. Excellent educational video. Much appreciated. Your biggest fan!

[@WildBillHabiki]

I was on Klonipin for 30 years to help me sleep then the rug was ripped out from under me with 2 weeks to detox. After detoxing I got to the point where I could only sleep 2-3 hrs max and I could not stay on a daily schedule. It was pure hell. I drank every night because it would put me to sleep but you can't drink every freaking night. I kept telling my primary that Klonipin (1mg a day!) helped me tremendously but she doesn't care. Thankfully I have a relative that gets extra klonipin so she gives me enough to keep me going. I'm sorry if some people can't handle Klonipin or abuse it but not everyone is that way. Some people actually benefit from it long term!

[@youtubeisinconsistent9169]

Primaries will lie straight to your face about this class of drug and try to put you on some nonsense that probably will give you a negative reaction. Go seek out a good psychiatrist they are much more in depth with anxiety issues and getting your meds straight/returned. Best of luck🤞

[@bdfan4ever]

Get a psychiatrist. They will help.

[@audiolego]

It does work for when i have to public speech though.

[@aquarius113]

If i take it 3/4 time weekly due to insomnia am i addicted to it or is there any nasty withdrawal as im taking it for 3mths pass now

[@Buffalosabskis]

Simplest explanation Alcohol in a pill form. Different release and duration times. That’s why in detox they use these. Edit. Wow what a great doc. He literally went on to say this

[@unassailable6138]

Alcohol in a pill form is fructose. Benzos do not damage the liver like alcohol and fructose.

[@Buffalosabskis]

@@unassailable6138 Alcohol is it's own macro. There are 4 technology. The brain processes it almost the same way as all of these meds. They all just have different therapeutic pharmacology levels and durations.

[@unassailable6138]

@@Buffalosabskis again benzos do NOT DAMAGE the LIVER as alcohol or sugar does, plus there are some people who have been on Benzos for over 35 plus years without any signs of brain damage.

[@Buffalosabskis]

@@unassailable6138 I never said there were not, but plenty of people drink in extreme amounts and also have no signs of Korsakoff's. People also have shown cognitive impairment related to any Gaba related med. Alcohol in its purest form like vodka has absolutely no sugar in any form in it. All pills have some GI effects too. Everyone knows alcohol is the worst on the liver. This is about how they make the person feel mentally and the way they act on the brain.

[@unassailable6138]

@@Buffalosabskis Benzos do not affect or mimic GABA, they only allow Chloride influx into the Gabaergic system in a more pronounced way. Alcohol on the the other hand causes brain shrinkage at very accelerated rates (brain shrinkage occurs naturally during aging but very slowly), benzos, do not. Alcohol notoriously destroys hepatocytes which is not very concerning, since those regenerate, but by destroying liver cholangiocytes (biliary epithelium) that does not regenerate is brutal over the long run. So I'd disagree in many ways with your doctors position that benzos are somewhat similar to alcohol. Now, anti-depressants, stimulants, which all affect histamines, acetylcholine, serotonin, those do predispose to dementia and are more nefarious to the brain's architecture.

[@christietan5768]

Hi Doctor thank you so much for your videos. This is an eye opener, I am on Benzos for 5 to 6 years now for my chronic insomnia, may I know which medication is the best alternative for this? Please help me 🙏🙏

[@maxperry7820]

Try lunesta or Ambien

[@arifhussain1374]

Antipsychotics Olanzapine or Quetiapine

[@ofearthseasky]

I wouldn’t take ANY of these recommendations esp antipsychotics. Do you know about Akasthesia? Please look it up.

[@anatino]

Remeron 7.5mg or 15mg

[@aquarius113]

@@arifhussain1374 wer to get this?as i had bad insomnia and under lorazepam now

[@masonatkinson2682]

Hello Dr. Kim. Is respiratory failure a possible outcome of taking low doses of lorazepam for a healthy person? No other substances involved.

[@vcrossCelticfc]

Extremely rare to OD to benzo's, taking them with no other medications or alcohol they are relatively benign except the obvious addiction issues. Once you add another medication or alcohol they turn deadly, REALLY dangerous. They aren't advised in elderly patients, I'm unsure why they affect the elderly different? I've never heard of anyone overdosing on benzo's alone, you could research it but you would unlikely find any cases.

[@bradleyheitz9210]

Fuck no

[@PeterAgostiniJdcap26]

Web md has a good drug interaction wizard .. thanks doctor Kim

[@AndrewKimMD]

Thanks for the helpful comment, hopefully others who read this can utilize that tool as well.

[@ChetanRanchod-dh7xz]

I could not sleep for the life of me. I would go to sleep at 11pm and wake up at 2 and stay up till 4. I would have this very uncomfortable feeling at night. I ended up getting 20 xanax 2mg and I started taking half. I have been taking half at night about 1030pm now I sleep all night or a bout 3 weeks. I feel like i need it. I don't drink or smoke weed. I feel like its something I need. That has brought me to your youtube. I'm on the fence. I will try to go to sleep without taking them for the next couple days and see how it goes. I don't want to get hooked on these but damn I get a great night of sleep with no issues during the day.

[@lazzy2012]

Don’t let the cure be worse than the disease… these are no joke coming off

[@umaruchan4783]

Dr. Kim I can't sleep at night and noon, please help me

[@jenjen2868]

I take 0.5 to 1 mg of Ativan a day. Should I just take half of that, and then a quarter to wean off.

[@wrighthartlane2315]

I took a bar on Xanex for the first time and fell asleep for 11 hours and no one could wake me up

[@nota7660]

It is screwed up when I wake up in the morning and people asked me if you’re OK and it’s not the flu or they asked me how are you feeling I hate Klonopin n

[@dyu007]

I took Xanax to treat anxiety. It was working well in the beginning. After taking it for a couple of weeks, I found myself becoming more anxious after taking Xanax. I stop it. My problem went away. My doctor prescribed clonazepam to treart pain induced anxiety. I have used a few times. It also help with my sleep. So far so good. The only problem is that I feel sleepy the next day. Is this normal/common?

[@jayton580]

So drinking alcohol will help with benzo withdrawal?

[@SarahFrazier-yl1sq]

If someone has alcohol dementia ( KS) and is on benzodiazepines is it the same as if they are still drinking in relation to damage to brain ?

[@lh98]

Does this mean one can use alcohol to wean off benzos? Or only benzos to wean off alcohol?

[@tomservo75]

I cannot imagine benzos for sleep. I have a relative who takes ambien AND klonopin at bedtime, because she was suffering from night terrors. But that seems like overload even for me. I was on Ambien for a while but started to get dependent, so my doctor took me off that and put me on Trazodone. It's an off-label use but it works for me. I do take benzos long term for panic disorder.

[@unassailable6138]

Dependednt on Ambien? Not only that crap doesnt cause dependency but instead stops working. After 2 months on it , I had to take 3 a night. One every 2 hours to sleep a total of 6 hours. Now I'm on a bnzo and can sleep 8/9 hours straight. Fiuck ambien, doxylamine, melatonin and all those other useless crap. I have to work from 7 AM to 7 PM in a shittty 3rd world country to make 1 thousand dollars a month and if I can't sleep my days are just torture, well I take dependency because not sleeping is a living hell.

[@aquarius113]

do u have any side effect..taking benzo

[@aquarius113]

@@unassailable6138 how long has u take benzo?

[@unassailable6138]

@@aquarius113 no side effects from benzo , I just pop 3mg of Xanax 2 hours before bed 8PM and by 10PM I fall sleep soundly until 7 AM and wake up feeling great.

[@unassailable6138]

@@aquarius113 2 months

[@miahconnell23]

Alcohol (I’m talking ONLY the physical addiction or dependency here, NOT the other aspects) Alcohol, if a person gets through a couple weeks they’ll then be ok: but bnz cessation causes severe problems that last MANY months, may be almost two years, and maybe can permanently cripple a person-

[@sandywhat2429]

Zdrugs (Zopiclone, Lunesta, Ambien etc) affects the Gaba in the brain like benzos and should be included in this list.

[@alyssajessie4779]

Do you know if Lyrica is the same too? I heard it affects GABA also?

[@sandywhat2429]

@@alyssajessie4779 it's not like a benzo or zdrug. I think lyrica and Gabapentin can affect breathing when mixed with certain drugs.

[@sandywhat2429]

@@alyssajessie4779 I'm not sure who talked you into that. You may very well have to withdraw. I was sick getting off gabapentin. Many drugs cause withdrawal. Hope it doesn't for you.

[@sandywhat2429]

@@alyssajessie4779 I'm not doing ok, I was on benzos for 40 yrs, I'm off and trying to survive. This is the toughest thing I've ever done. Thank you for your kind words, I hope you make out ok too. ❤️

[@sandywhat2429]

@@alyssajessie4779 What did a Dr think Lyrica would do for you??

[@anneswisher9207]

I use Xanax as needed and works great for me.

[@AndrewKimMD]

When prescribed and used responsibly/intermittently, yes. Can be done. Unfortunately not the case always, and not uncommon that we see problematic outcomes.

[@ces576]

I have Sever insomnia and have tried Ambien, Lunesta, Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, Mirtazapine, Seroquel and nothing has helped. The benzodiazepines helped relax and calm me but not to sleep. Seroquel was the only one the came slightly close to help me fall asleep. I’m seeing my psychiatrist next month, does anyone have any suggestions that I can bring up? I’ve tried sleep hygiene and meditation but still need to add a OTC along with the medication. 🤯

[@Johndoe-nb5cw]

Check out Dr. Hubermans podcast on sleep 💯

[@aquarius113]

I've tried many but nothing works! See specialist and consultation too.. But i was prescribed lorazepam.. For 2mths now

[@bigbad_]

Bro try green low THC and hight CBD content marijuana then you may not need anything else marijuana is king of all this but only high CBD content stuff

[@unassailable6138]

Were u able to sleep. Ask for amitryptiline which has an off label use as a sleep agent , resistant people usuallly have success with that.

[@titilayothegreat]

all of them are bad, but I understand when you can't sleep you get desperate. I'm paying the price now

[@cantiargentina]

Great video! What do you think about CBD for the withdraw? Also, I take 0.25 a day for about 4 years? Do you think I’m in a lower risk for taking less. Thank you very much

[@Buffalosabskis]

You need to speak with your provider. I am not giving you medical advise, but personally speaking. No. For true dependence CBD will not be enough. It does have some anti seizure properties, but it’s mild and not very well researched. It also depends on which Benzo you are talking about. I have worked in addiction for 10 years and have seen people on all kinds of levels. Generally let’s say a person comes in taking 20mg of Xanax a day. They will be given Phenobarbital. It’s a barbiturate that like how Benzos are used for alcohol it is used for Benzo withdrawal. Some hospitals have different protocol and use a slower digesting Benzo, but a lot of times they like to use a different line of drug to stop dependence of one drug. This is also an inpatient process.

[@relentlessliving5588]

@@Buffalosabskis quick question for you. I'm 4 months sober from alcohol. I drank for close to ten years. I don't drink caffeine or anything and also am hitting the gym everyday. My sleeping pattern is all messed up. I got prescribed lorazpam today. Do you think it can help occasionally to just help me reset my sleeping pattern? Like just take 1mg tonight to reset myself and not take again unless needed?

[@Buffalosabskis]

@@relentlessliving5588 Just personal advise. It could be the new workout routine. Until the body gets used to it intense working out can effect sleep. It can also take 6 months or more to get over PAWs (Post Acute Withdrawal) from alcohol which includes insomnia. Lorazepam is pretty fast acting and could leave you waking up with a “hills and valley” reaction. I would definitely be honest about everything with the prescriber and ask them. Some people can take Benzos after quitting drinking and others it sparks their appetite for it because it reacts on the same parts of the brain. Sorry I can’t give a definitive answer, but there really is not one. Congrats on the 4 months. That is a huge step.

[@relentlessliving5588]

@@Buffalosabskis thanks for the reply! It's hard to find information on issues like this.

[@relentlessliving5588]

@@Buffalosabskis what is the hills and valley reaction? Anxiety described like a Rollercoaster or something

[@MichaelChigona]

Can I stop using temazepam after 4 days?

[@marryjane1684]

This is y I take unisom those pill actually never worked for me especially Xanax

[@sandywhat2429]

Youve not mentioned tolerance withdrawal, which can mimic mental health issues. Loads of patients who are prescribed benzos for years are interdose tolerance withdrawal.

[@caffrey1100]

Yes we end up in hell don’t know what happened I for one .5 mg 3 x a day and not always 3 a day some days 1 or 2 only and yrs never a problem 1 day hit tolerance was like omg what is going on you can’t up dose it doesn’t really help to your in withdrawl hell buckle up no getting past it I fired my doctor so wasn’t able them to even wean off so went cold Turkey well it’s 1 yr and 3 mi ths iff still not well better but far from normal now trying hydroxzune it helps 100 MF to sleep cuz there was no sleep of 8 hours for many many months 🙌🙌

[@sandywhat2429]

@@caffrey1100 ❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏

[@sunnyromano6862]

Spent years going to drs, getting tests; even out of pocket until i found out that it was tolerance withdrawal. I found that out on line.

[@paulbillington8290]

@@sunnyromano6862 What is tolorence withdrawl?

[@sr2291]

​@@paulbillington8290 Interdose withdrawal occurs when withdrawal symptoms emerge in between scheduled doses.

[@donnagrimaldi6167]

I was prescribed 15 mg of Temazepam for insomnia. Several people that were prescribed Lorazepam for anxiety were given only 1 mg. Why is there such a difference in dosage?

[@mrmoola3970]

I'm detoxing from 10 - 30mg per day. The hospital wouldn't even accept me. They had take me by ambulance to some kinda professional

[@lesstrashmoreclass]

I believe my “father” was drugging me with one of these (liquid form) for decades w/o my knowledge. I remember he’d randomly offer me drinks b/f bed and when I’d wake up in the morning, I’d feel confused/dazed/groggy, trouble with memory, & muscle weakness. As the hours progressed and the drug (which I didn’t even know were in my system) wore off, I’d experience chills, headaches, stomach aches, no appetite, trouble focusing in class, feeling completely disconnected from my peers. Never could explain it b/c as a kid/teenager, I had no idea of such drugs & their side effects.

[@mandyrose5822]

What is one to do if they hit tolerance on a benzo? Taper or go off?

[@AndrewKimMD]

In general, a discussion should take place with the person's prescriber. Depending on how high or low the dose of the benzodiazepine is will affect the decision. In an ideal world, the plan should be to view the benzodiazepine as a short term or intermediate plan (if it is being used regularly/daily), and whether the issue is insomnia, anxiety, etc. trying to find non-benzodiazepine options are best in order to then gradually reduce the use of the benzo. If it is ever decided that someone wants to get off their benzos, a discussion with the prescriber to take place on how to gradually lower the dose. Because there is the potential for withdrawal.

[@SanjaySharma-me1pl]

@@AndrewKimMD I took Ativan 3 to 4 mg when I tried quitting cold turkey 4 weeks on and off then went two ... weeks trying to get off cold turkey but Could not get my sleep back . I don’t kno if it’s the rebound . Insomnia but Still can’t sleep . So I don’t think I can sleep without medication . So if one medication stops working one day can u rely on other medication.

[@caffrey1100]

@@SanjaySharma-me1pl see no answer but my experience be careful took Xanax as prescribed then she gave me tamazapam - out of blue it worked but stayed on long time one a nite to sleep and detox is rough so if you don’t hv to don’t do it period BENZOS all poison 🙏🙏✅

[@teresahoang6593]

@@SanjaySharma-me1pl can u sleep again without medicine yet

[@sandywhat2429]

Educate your profession. Hundreds of thousands out here very sick from longterm withdrawal because of our drs.

[@caffrey1100]

Yes did coir are giving poison out sick

[@sunnyromano6862]

Agree

[@bayareadrifter415]

Exactly 💯

[@sweetmountainbaby]

How are you doing? 4 plus years in sheer hell here

[@sandywhat2429]

@@sweetmountainbaby I'm in hell. Hell on earth.

[@catwell34]

Good evening Doctor Kim I just watched your video very informative I have been on benzodiazepines for about 25 years yes I do experience problems with depression anxietyand sometimes I'm my main thing I've been taking AmbienZolpidem tartrate310 mg tablets at night for several years sometimes it works sometimes it doesn't I do see a psychiatrist on a monthly basisshe does try to help me and whatever she can do for me she is afraid of the usage of dystopianbut I have found nothing else that helps me the only other thing that helps me is the Xanax and that's something she will not rightso you're definitely right in terms of your explanation of these medications I have been through the withdrawals or terribleone of the episodes I had I was up for 5 straight days until I got my prescription filled and then I took my normal dosage and I was able to get at least a couple hours sleep I sleep maybe 4 to 5 hours a night I do have sleep apnea I use a machineI've been on my CPAP therapy for many yearsso I do thank you for allowing me to watch this I just subscribed to your channel and hopefully I will be able to talk to you and maybe in the future or maybe sometime and get some ideas from you where your ways to taper offwhen I when I go to taper off I'm going to have to have something to put in my bodyso once again thank you very much it was very informative and well-read and well-educated me and I thank you for that

[@waynedem468]

Thank you very much

[@lianuttam7884]

I am on 20mg of Temazepam for insomnia and 10mg of Diazepam for anxiety. My doctor did try me on Ambien however that did not go well. Let's say when I am on Ambien I end up waking up on planet Mars. My daughter who is four has been diagnosed with Seperation Anxiety Disorder and is prescribed Zoloft and 2mg of Diazepam. My daughter is very clingy to me when I am not there she gets depressed and starts crying. Let's say she is daddy little girl. Can I please get a second opion.

[@lianuttam7884]

@@Jay-eo3wl wish I was

[@aquarius113]

how are u now?do u have any side effect taking it?how.long u on the meds?

[@donnabittner69]

I have never heard of a child on this medication. I definitely would get a zillion other opinions !!

[@donnabittner69]

Ambien is a terrible medication. It should never be considered.

[@eunidapieters9331]

It is actually a pity you have to be so careful using your words, not to offend 'us addicts' You 100% right Andrew, WE (INCLUDING MYSELF) got ourselves into this mess now people like you have to walk on eggs trying to warn us, how to get off this shit, which is a hell of task ahead--true, its no walk in the park, but in the end WE HAVE OURSELVES TO BLAME! No one else. Thank you, for sharing your knowledge. Bless you.

[@kaylynnhuddleston5533]

if your not an addict then do not worry. Some people need these medications and never ever add more.

[@karinadiaz6467]

how can I withdraw safely from clonazepam 2mg please

[@GospelScribe]

I’ve been on benzos (1 mg k) for 33 years. Now, it seems that I’m being forced off of them. So, I’m considering tapering using 100 mg gabapentin. Is this advisable?!?

[@Victor1Charlie]

1 mg is nothing. Just break them in half for a few weeks and then break them into thirds if you can for another few weeks and then into fourths until you stop them. I took 10 mg diazepam and am now taking 5 mg for over 15 years.

[@aquarius113]

Any side effect?im on lorazepam for 3mths pass now due to my insomnia but taking it only 3-4times weekly is it ok?wt if i stop it abruptly

[@Totallyking]

@@Victor1Charlie 1mg of clonazepam is equal to about 20mg of diazepam. Clearly not nothing.

[@aquarius113]

any side effect when u take it for 33yrs?

[@unassailable6138]

gabapentin is the worst drug on the planet, Benzos are angels next to that nasty drug. DO not take it. See if you can take amitryptiline to taper off the benzo, with some ambien perhaps.

[@viviandasilva8520]

I need them because I have Agoraphobia and I can’t do anything at all not even get up in the morning and I have a special needs daughter…. 😢 Doctors do😢understand and I do pray 🙏 so God will deliver me from them plus I can’t fall asleep on my own… Am I better off dead????

[@alyssajessie4779]

Can anyone please tell me when in withdrawal you are most likely to have seizures? It’s been a few weeks for me now and I’m worried I’m gonna die in my sleep? Or is this just my anxious brain talking?

[@fotone]

It’s almost 100% psychological, which of course doesn’t make it less serious or easier to deal with. But you most certainly won’t die from it.

[@alyssajessie4779]

@@fotone phew thank you! But do you know when seizures most likely occur? In the first few weeks of acute withdrawal or protracted withdrawal stage? I can’t seem to find this answer on websites and I’m to scared to see a Dr.

[@dianelindenberger6941]

Does klonopin cause depression>?I also took some visteral 50 mg and now I am falling asleep at my comptuer..help

[@anonymousalcoholic3648]

yeah sometimes day after i took my 2 times a month i am so extremely depressed that i catch myself ohmy god im so depressed i wanna die, but its so obviously the drug so no way would i ever act on that depression but it goes over same day if you only use kpin in emergency. do a little workout and go back to bed

[@tyrel-fg7zf]

Use ativan or zolpidem

[@likedontcostmoney5595]

Can it’s be combined with trt or steroids ? Thanks

[@christophergros9884]

Benzos saved my life

[@mikemcginnis9237]

Are we supposed to know how long "short term" is?

[@brandondixon2138]

2 weeks or less is the approved duration, however, some of these medications are used longer than that, such as the extended-release forms

[@samuelaubrey2612]

I think a good rule so be never to use for more than a week, only use in emergencies, they are misused, they have a place

[@clintparsons3989]

Why are they so addictive if they don’t work on dopamine or opioid receptors?

[@glenn5517]

People trying to achieve a fake high

[@clintparsons3989]

@@glenn5517 benzos don’t do anything to me as far as a high goes. Practically a placebo, even at 2x he dose. I don’t see what people get out of them.

[@glenn5517]

@@clintparsons3989 anxiety relief lol

[@bigbad_]

Calmness bro people get angry immediately so they need benzoz to calm there mind and every little shit your mind take seriously in angry way in withdrawal

[@garysimone4977]

Doc put me on 20 mg of ambien how bad is that ?? I want off Doc you do telemed ..I was on ativan 4mg have cut to 1mg now

[@titilayothegreat]

it's not good at all

[@fifibatman638]

Has anyone heard of limbtrol?

[@aussiesoapgirl3378]

Benzo withdrawal is no joke.

[@TravisTowle]

You can take gaba meds too to ease your way off.

[@AndrewKimMD]

Theoretically yes. For example, in some countries they will utilize things like Depakote which is an anti-epileptic, that promotes GABA signals to some degree to even help with alcohol withdrawal in certain detox settings. The main issue with utilizing gaba over the counter options is the high variability of potency from one brand to another and not having clear dose equivalencies to benzodiazepine doses to have concrete guidelines to guide dosing. If there were better studies and research and dose equivalency charts, in theory could be doable at the very least to take the edge of as you mentioned.

[@sweetmountainbaby]

Most Drs don’t have a clue how to safely get you off , it can take years not a month

[@rebeccagalavan4036]

What if you are just taking .25 Xanax daily

[@sweetmountainbaby]

Not going to survive my brutal forced cold turkey 8 mg 4x aday for 16 years ! Never ever given informed consent . Given for one yes one panic attack only ! Ativan after years caused me horrible insomnia, now my pain is to brutal to ever recover! 4 plus years ,I pray to die nightly because my hope is lost

[@CP-yp8pc]

Same

[@foodie4128]

It's easy for you to say but I lost two houses because I didn't take my benzodionazepines.

[@lazzy2012]

No, you lost your houses because of your choices… benzodiazepines might help explain it, but it doesn’t excuse it.

[@foodie4128]

@@lazzy2012 I've lost two houses Total in my life! if you're saying they were not based on choices.... and why are you bringing up? been so diazepams? like I stated already... The reason why I lost both of my houses is because I didn't take benzos! I didn't lose my houses because I did take benzos! The only choices I made was to not take benzos! but if I had taken.... then I probably would have never lost my first house to begin with!

[@jaymoraski]

Wish someone had told be this 10 years ago...................when I had extreme insomnia problems likely from health, work stress and was desperate for any relief. Doctor just gave it to me when I told him I had sleep/stress problems with not advice/warning. Any Ativan long term use is likely not beneficial. Agree best only take it occasionally for sleep. I think not all dr. are aware that the body gets addicted to the stuff. The long term effects will hit u when u least expect it. Looking back, the advice I would give anyone is have a good work/life balance, exercise, socialize - have friends, eat healthy, find a passion or joy and reach out to friends, family, professionals when u need help. Start these life style changes as a wellness choice before you develop illnesses. Wish someone told me these important things in my 20's. Most doctors try to help, but are mostly old school and slap drugs at u. Need to solve the root cause to permanently fix instead of masking systems. Wish all the best.........................