What are the risks of abruptly discontinuing estazolam?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Abrupt discontinuation of estazolam may generally lead to withdrawal reactions, worsening of insomnia, increased anxiety, mental disturbances, and physical discomfort. After long-term use, sudden cessation disrupts the body's dependent state on the drug, potentially causing symptoms such as dizziness, headache, tremors, nausea, and in severe cases, seizures.

  Suddenly stopping eszopiclone may generally lead to withdrawal reactions, worsened insomnia, induced anxiety, mental disturbances, and physical discomfort. Specific analyses are as follows:

  1. Withdrawal reactions: After long-term use, abruptly discontinuing the drug breaks the body's state of dependence, possibly causing symptoms such as dizziness, headache, tremors, nausea, and in severe cases, even seizures, placing a significant burden on the body.

  2. Worsened insomnia: Eszopiclone is commonly used to improve sleep. Once discontinued suddenly, its regulatory effect on sleep disappears, potentially causing rebound insomnia that may be worse than before treatment, manifesting as difficulty falling asleep, light sleep, and frequent awakenings.

  3. Induced anxiety: Sudden discontinuation may affect the stability of the central nervous system, triggering sudden anxiety episodes characterized by restlessness, irritability, tension, and in some individuals, accompanied by palpitations and rapid breathing.

  4. Mental disturbances: Abrupt cessation may disrupt the balance of brain neurotransmitters, affecting mental status and leading to poor concentration, memory decline, and significant mood swings, which in severe cases can impair normal daily functioning and social interactions.

  5. Physical discomfort: In addition to the above reactions, various physical symptoms may occur, such as dry mouth, increased sweating, fatigue, and reduced appetite. These symptoms further reduce physical comfort and negatively impact overall health.

  In daily life, eszopiclone should be taken strictly according to medical instructions, and one should never stop taking it suddenly. If dosage adjustment or discontinuation is needed, it should be done gradually under a doctor’s supervision to minimize associated risks.

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