What is the potential duration for withdrawal symptoms from anti-anxiety drugs?

Withdrawal symptoms from anti-anxiety medications, particularly those in the benzodiazepine class, can indeed last from 5 days to 1 month. This is due to the pharmacological properties of these drugs, which affect the central nervous system and can lead to physical dependence when used over an extended period.

The onset of withdrawal symptoms typically begins within 24 hours to a few days after the last dose, peaking around 1 to 2 weeks, and can persist for weeks in some individuals, particularly if they have been using the medication for a long time or at high doses. Symptoms may range from mild anxiety to more severe reactions like seizures or psychosis, depending on various factors, including the duration of use, dosage, and the individual's physiological response.

Understanding the duration and nature of withdrawal symptoms is crucial for healthcare providers to stabilize and support patients in safely tapering off these medications while managing their symptoms appropriately.