In this episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong discusses the mechanisms of benzodiazepine induced neurological dysfunction (BIND) and the complexities of benzodiazepine withdrawal. He explains that benzodiazepines and Z drugs increase the effect of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which leads the brain to compensate by increasing excitotoxic glutamate. Over time, this balance shift can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and heightened anxiety, among other issues. Dr Armstrong also compares BIND to conditions like fibromyalgia and opioid-induced hyperalgesia, providing a robust framework for understanding the distressing experiences faced by those on long-term benzodiazepines.

00:00 GABA's Impact and Brain Compensation

03:50 Paradox of Drug-Induced Sensitisation

08:12 Benzodiazepine Tapering Principles

10:23 Lifestyle Medicine for Withdrawal

13:33 Farewell from Cracking Addiction