Deprescribing Benzodiazepines and Z-Drugs: Applying Deprescribing Guidelines in General Practice
Webinar 17 Feb, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM (AEDT)
Benzodiazepines and Z-drugs (i.e., Zopiclone and Zolpidem) play a valuable role in the short-term management of anxiety and insomnia, but long-term use is associated with dependence, cognitive impairment, falls, and other harms. Despite their risks, deprescribing these medications in general practice can be challenging. In this 60-minute session, we will translate the internationally recognised Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines into actionable strategies for everyday general practice. Participants will learn the core principles of Maudsley deprescribing, including hyperbolic tapering and personalised reduction strategies, and gain practical skills to identify suitable patients and how to safely initiate tapering. This session combines clinical guidance with real-world case examples, giving you the confidence to support your patients in reducing or stopping benzodiazepines and Z-drugs safely.
Learning outcomes
- Identify why and in whom to deprescribe benzodiazepines and Z-drugs.
- Summarise the key principles of current evidence-based deprescribing guidelines.
- Discuss common barriers to deprescribing and apply practical strategies to overcome them.
- Describe effective, person-centred approaches to facilitate deprescribing conversations.
Educational Activities
1.0
hours
Speakers
Dr Paul Grinzi
GP Medical Educator for the RACGP's Alcohol and Other Drugs GP Education Program
Paul is a GP working in Melbourne's inner north. Paul is passionate about supporting GPs to be confident to treat patients who use alcohol and other drugs. He is also a dedicated advocate for general practice. Paul Grinzi is a senior medical educator for RACGP's GP Training and the AOD GP Education Programs. Paul also is the clinical lead for RACGP Victoria's Medication Assisted Treatment of Opioid Dependence Training program on behalf of Victorian Government.
Dr Erin Oldenhof
Research and Innovation Lead; Doctor of Psychology(Clinical), BA(Psych) (Hons)