BIC Position Statement on the Use of Benzodiazepines in Patients Receiving Buprenorphine Treatment Laura C. Huff M.D. [a], Peter R. Martin, M.D., M.S.[b],, A. J. Reid Finlayson, M.D., M.M.H.C.[c] [a]Benzodiazepine Information Coalition, Director [b]Vanderbilt University…
Dear Chairs and Members of the Committee on Mental Health and Substance Abuse: I am a retired cardiothoracic surgeon. I retired from surgery in 1997. I reentered medicine in 2003 although in a non-surgical capacity….
As Prescribed, a documentary film about the benzodiazepine epidemic and the iatrogenic nature of benzodiazepine illness and disability, expects to complete production this year. The film’s director, Holly Hardman, is a survivor of benzodiazepine injury,…
In October 2016, I wrote an open letter detailing my withdrawal and the dangers of benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. Many have asked how I am doing since that time. I’m going to be completely open and…
Note: Lori Heckenkamp passed away on July 14, 2017. Dear Dr. X, My name is Lori Jean Heckenkamp. I am 57 and a patient at the Cancer Center where you head the gynecologic oncology group….
It’s no surprise that drugs don’t always play together nicely in the human body. The term “drug interaction” can stir up a great deal of fear in unsuspecting healthcare consumers and, as a result, a…
I wrote a Facebook post recently stating “harmed, not addicted.” I was referring to those of us who have been damaged by prescribed benzodiazepine medication. For me, the words “addicted” or “addiction” are potentially damaging….
Dr. Isaac Marks and Dr. Richard Swinson led a study to determine the efficacy of the benzodiazepine class drug, alprazolam, marketed under the brand name, Xanax, by its developer, Upjohn. The Marks and Swinson study…
