BIPC Substance Abuse and Disorders Practice Exam 2026 - Free Substance Abuse Practice Questions and Study Guide

Benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause seizures because the brain adapts to chronic GABA-A receptor stimulation by increasing excitability. Over time, the brain dampens its own inhibitory systems, and when the benzodiazepine is stopped, this reduced inhibition combined with relatively unopposed excitatory activity can trigger seizures. This makes seizures the most dangerous withdrawal manifestation associated with these medications.

Tolerance is about needing higher doses to achieve the same effect and isn’t a withdrawal event. A rebound effect can occur after stopping, but it’s typically a return of symptoms the drug was masking rather than a life-threatening withdrawal hallmark. Sedation reflects the drug’s immediate effect, not a withdrawal risk.