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Evidence-led information · Clinical editorial standards
Benzodiazepine dependence can develop during prescribed or non-medical use. Physical dependence means abrupt cessation may cause withdrawal; addiction additionally involves impaired control…
Benzodiazepine withdrawal may include anxiety, insomnia, tremor, sensory sensitivity, nausea, perceptual disturbance, and—in severe cases—seizure or delirium. Symptoms can be difficult to…
Benzodiazepine reduction is usually a gradual, individualised clinical process rather than a rapid “detox.” The pace may need adjustment according to symptoms,…
Z-drugs and other sleeping medicines can produce tolerance, dependence, rebound insomnia, next-day impairment, and loss of control in some users.
Pregabalin and gabapentin are prescribed for selected conditions but can be misused and may cause dependence or withdrawal. Sedation and overdose risk…
Prescription stimulant misuse includes taking medication without a prescription, using a different dose or route, or using it for wakefulness, weight loss,…
Codeine is an opioid that can cause tolerance, dependence, opioid use disorder, and overdose. Combination products may add toxicity from paracetamol/acetaminophen or…
Tramadol is an opioid with additional effects on serotonin and noradrenaline. Dependence, opioid use disorder, seizures, serotonin toxicity, and a mixed withdrawal…
Antidepressants can cause discontinuation symptoms when stopped or reduced, but they do not typically produce the intoxication, craving, and compulsive reward-seeking pattern…
Prescription drug addiction can involve opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, sedatives, or other medicines. The key issue is not whether a drug was prescribed,…