Overcoming Librium Dependency: Seeking Neurological Care for Withdrawal

Librium (chlordiazepoxide) is a medication used primarily for the treatment of anxiety disorders and for the management of alcohol withdrawal

My mother has been taking the controlled substance Librium for over 10 years.
Now, she has difficulty walking and climbing stairs, and she needs to discontinue Librium.
She cannot detoxify on her own at home and requires inpatient treatment, as this is a sedative and should be managed by a neurologist.
Which neurologist should we consult? There are not many cases of Librium toxicity, and most neurologists seem to have no understanding of how to manage its withdrawal.
We have already visited several neurologists without success; they all say they are not responsible since they did not prescribe the medication.
Years ago, my mother went to an ENT specialist for her tinnitus, who prescribed Librium.
After long-term use, she developed difficulty walking and was misdiagnosed with Parkinson's disease at another hospital, leading to years of taking Parkinson's medication.
Eventually, she went to National Taiwan University Hospital, where the doctors correctly identified that it was not Parkinson's disease, and she stopped taking the Parkinson's medication.
Currently, my mother is still taking 3 pills of Librium daily.

jiu jiu j, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/07/08

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology

1.
For issues related to drug addiction withdrawal, one should seek consultation from a psychiatrist.
2.
After stopping the medication for several weeks or months, a reassessment should be conducted to determine whether the unsteady gait is caused by Librium.

Reply Date: 2004/07/08

More Info

Overcoming dependency on Librium (chlordiazepoxide) can be a challenging process, especially after long-term use, as in your mother's case. Librium is a benzodiazepine that is often prescribed for anxiety and other conditions, but prolonged use can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms when trying to discontinue the medication. Given your mother's situation, it is crucial to approach this matter with care and professional guidance.

Firstly, it is important to understand that withdrawal from benzodiazepines like Librium should not be attempted abruptly or without medical supervision. This is because withdrawal symptoms can range from mild anxiety to severe complications, including seizures. Therefore, a medically supervised tapering schedule is often recommended to gradually reduce the dosage and minimize withdrawal effects.

In terms of seeking neurological care, it is advisable to consult a neurologist who specializes in addiction medicine or a psychiatrist with experience in managing benzodiazepine withdrawal. These specialists are more likely to have the knowledge and resources to assist with tapering off Librium safely. You may want to look for a facility that specializes in substance use disorders or a comprehensive addiction treatment program, as they often have the expertise to handle cases of benzodiazepine dependency.

When searching for a suitable neurologist or psychiatrist, consider the following steps:
1. Research Specialists: Look for neurologists or psychiatrists who have a focus on addiction medicine. You can search through local medical boards, hospital websites, or addiction treatment centers.

2. Consultation: Schedule consultations with potential specialists to discuss your mother's history with Librium and her current symptoms. This will help you gauge their understanding and approach to benzodiazepine withdrawal.

3. Hospitalization: If your mother requires inpatient treatment, inquire about hospitals or clinics that have dedicated programs for managing benzodiazepine withdrawal. Inpatient care can provide a controlled environment where medical professionals can monitor her condition closely.

4. Support Groups: Consider seeking support from groups that focus on benzodiazepine withdrawal. These groups can provide valuable insights and shared experiences from others who have gone through similar situations.

5. Family Support: It is essential to provide emotional support to your mother during this process. Withdrawal can be psychologically taxing, and having a supportive family can make a significant difference in her recovery journey.

Regarding the previous misdiagnosis of Parkinson's disease, it is crucial to ensure that your mother receives a thorough evaluation to rule out any other underlying conditions that may be contributing to her mobility issues. A neurologist can perform the necessary assessments to determine if her symptoms are solely related to Librium dependency or if there are other neurological factors at play.

In conclusion, overcoming dependency on Librium requires a careful and structured approach. Finding the right medical professional who understands the complexities of benzodiazepine withdrawal is key. With the right support and treatment plan, your mother can work towards safely discontinuing Librium and improving her overall well-being. Remember, it is essential to remain patient and supportive throughout this process, as recovery can take time.

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