Benzodiazepines and Dependence: A College Statement

There is increasing concern, both among doctors and the lay public, on the potential for dependence of the benzodiazepine group of drugs. In order that the Royal College of Psychiatrists could publish a view on this contentious topic, a consensus meeting was arranged on 10 June 1987 by the Programmes and Meetings Committee (see list of participants). The following statement has now been approved by the College.