Benzodiazepine Tapering Decisions: Basic Principles through Complex Management

Thursday, April 23, 2026
9:00 am – 4:30 pm

*Not included with the full conference; separate registration required

Overview

This is an interactive, case-based course designed for healthcare providers who work with patients taking benzodiazepines. Through expert guidance, peer discussions, reflection, and collaborative learning, participants will explore evidence-based and patient-centered approaches to decisions around tapering. This course focuses on enhancing patient engagement and readiness, managing complex withdrawal, and addressing unique clinical needs and co-occurring conditions.

Participants will review tapering protocols, standardized guidance, and best practices to develop individualized, practical strategies. By the end of the course, participants will have developed effective strategies and tools to safely and confidently guide patients through the tapering process.

Who Should Attend

This course is for healthcare professionals who work with patients taking benzodiazepines.

Course Topics

Overcoming Patient Resistance
Tapering 101: Minimizing Withdrawal
Tapering Guidance: Case-based Discussions
Psychiatric Comorbidities
Polysubstance Use
Special Populations (Pregnancy, Elderly, & Chronic Pain)

Course Faculty

Emily Brunner, MD, DFASAM (Course Director)

Stephen Holt, MD, FASAM (Course Director)
Donovan Maust, MD, MS
Chinyere Ogbonna, MD, MPH