Patient and Family Education

• Advise patient to avoid discontinuing BZs abruptly to avoid rebound or withdrawal symptoms.
• Advise patient to avoid adjusting dosing of BZs without consulting prescriber for the above-mentioned reason.
• Teach patient that, unlike BZs, buspiron (BuSpar) has no tolerance or dependence effects.
• Teach patient that beta blockers can cause bradycardia or exercise intolerance.
• Tell patient not to take BZs with alcohol or over-the-counter medications for insomnia.
• Teach patient to avoid making important decisions if BZs disturb concentration.