Q I'm worried about becoming dependent on benzodiazepines. Can Korean medicine replace them?
A Benzodiazepines are useful for short-term emergency relief, but long-term use leads to dependence — Korean medicine treatment can be combined to support a gradual taper.
Detailed Answer
Benzodiazepines (alprazolam, lorazepam, etc.) rapidly calm panic attacks but can cause physical dependence after 4–6 weeks of use. Stopping abruptly can trigger withdrawal symptoms (rebound anxiety, insomnia, sweating), so tapering must always be done gradually under medical supervision. Combining Korean medicine treatment strengthens a non-pharmacological safety net and makes the benzodiazepine tapering process more stable.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, during the benzodiazepine taper, Ondamtang and Gwibijang maintain Heart-Gallbladder (心膽) stability while acupuncture reinforces autonomic nervous system balance. The tapering pace is determined in consultation with your conventional medical provider; abrupt discontinuation under Korean medicine alone is not recommended.
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