Which benzodiazepine is recommended for patients with a history of withdrawal seizures?

Lorazepam is the preferred benzodiazepine for patients with a history of withdrawal seizures due to its pharmacological properties and safety profile. It has a relatively rapid onset of action and provides effective seizure control, which is particularly important in withdrawal scenarios where there is a high risk of seizures. Lorazepam is also water-soluble, which allows for parenteral administration, making it advantageous in acute settings or for patients who may be unable to take medications orally.

In cases of alcohol withdrawal, lorazepam is often used in detoxification protocols due to its favorable side effect profile and the ability to be effectively dosed in patients with hepatic impairment, which is often present in individuals with a history of substance use disorders. This ensures that it can be administered safely to a broader range of patients.

Other benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and chlordiazepoxide, while effective for anxiety management and delirium tremens, are not as frequently used as lorazepam in the acute management of withdrawal seizures due to their longer half-lives and slower onset of action, which may delay seizure control. Alprazolam, although effective for anxiety, is less suitable in this context as it is primarily used for panic disorders and has a