FLUMAZENIL AND PRECIPITATED BENZODIAZEPINE WITHDRAWAL REACTION

Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist with valuable clinical applications in reversing the benzodiazepine-induced central nervous system depressant effects after diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and as an adjunct in the management of benzodiazepine overdose. Extensive clinical trials in the United States, Europe, and elsewhere have documented that flumazenil can safely, effectively, and reliably reverse the sedative effects of benzodiazepines. It should be noted that flumazenil can precipitate a withdrawal reaction in patients with even limited prior use of benzodiazepines. Although these reactions have generally been mild and transient, careful patient selection and dosage titration can minimize the likelihood of such reactions in at-risk patients.