Question: How rapidly does physical dependence on benzodiazepines develop?
Answer: The cited article states “Physical dependence to benzodiazepines can be seen after just 3-6 weeks of use at therapeutic doses and 40% of patients using benzodiazepines for longer than 6 months will experience moderate to severe withdrawal [upon discontinuation of the drug].” (Puening SE et al. Psychiatric emergencies for clinicians: Emergency department management of benzodiazepine withdrawal. J Emerg Med 52(1): 66-69)
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