10 Tips for Talking to Your Doctor About Benzodiazepines: A Patient's Perspective

👩‍⚕️Find a supportive prescriber who is willing to help you taper off benzodiazepines safely.

📚Bring evidence-based information, such as the Ashton Manual, to support your tapering plans.

😌Remain calm and respectful during appointments, even though benzodiazepine withdrawal can be challenging.

👥Consider bringing a supportive family member to appointments to provide an extra set of eyes and ears.

💪Persistence is key - don't give up if your current doctor is not supportive. Seek another doctor if needed.

What should I do if I am cut off abruptly from benzodiazepines?

—If you are unable to find a new prescriber in a timely fashion, go to the emergency room as benzodiazepine withdrawal can be serious and life-threatening.

Where can I find a benzodiazepine cooperative prescriber?

—You can visit the Benzodiazepine Information Coalition website for a list of prescribers willing to help with tapering.

What should I bring to my doctor's appointment?

—Bring a list of goals, questions, and suggested taper plans to guide the conversation.

How should I communicate with my doctor during the appointment?

—Remain calm, respectful, and concise. Use collaborative language and be honest about your symptoms and experiences.

What if my doctor is not supportive of tapering?

—If your doctor is not willing to support your tapering plans, consider seeking another doctor who understands and can help.

00:00Introduction by Christy Huff, director of Benzodiazepine Information Coalition.

00:12The importance of having a supportive prescriber for benzodiazepine tapering and managing adverse effects.

01:06Tips for finding a benzodiazepine cooperative prescriber and recommendations from other patients and trusted contacts.

04:31Preparing for the doctor's appointment with a list of goals, questions, and an outline.

06:18Tips for effective communication during the appointment, including using collaborative language and bringing evidence-based information.

09:02Resources to bring to the doctor, such as the Ashton Manual and FDA's updated boxed warning for benzodiazepines.

09:36The importance of perseverance in finding a supportive prescriber and not giving up on finding help.