Benzodiazepine Tapering in SUD provides structured strategies for reducing benzodiazepines in patients with substance use disorders while protecting sleep, anxiety control, and safety. This page translates guidance into practice: risk stratification, stabilization before taper, and stepwise dose reductions with cross-titration when appropriate. If you’re weighing options at a benzodiazepine tapering conference, you’ll find protocols for inpatient vs outpatient approaches, seizure precautions, and alignment with MOUD or AUD medications. Because relapse risk rises when anxiety and insomnia rebound, we connect to Sleep and Mood Disorders for non-sedative strategies that sustain function during and after taper.

Success depends on preparation and alternatives. We outline readiness checklists, motivational framing, and agreements that set expectations and safety nets. Non-benzodiazepine pathways—CBT-I, exposure for panic, SSRIs/SNRIs, buspirone, hydroxyzine, and limited-duration adjuncts—reduce rebound symptoms. Slow, individualized schedules with held-dose periods prevent destabilization; high-risk contexts (polypharmacy, older age, liver disease) prompt closer monitoring and slower steps. Family education, peer supports, and clear crisis contacts improve persistence. Documentation and PDMP checks reduce risk, while dashboards track sleep, anxiety, function, and adverse events.