Laura, which one should be discontinued first: quetiapine or magnesium valproate?
Nov 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Lorazepam belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs. Long-term use may lead to dependence, and abrupt discontinuation can easily trigger withdrawal symptoms such as worsened anxiety, insomnia, and tremors. If discontinuation is necessary, the dose should be gradually reduced to prevent symptom rebound. Quetiapine is an antipsychotic medication used to stabilize mood and control psychiatric symptoms. If the condition is stable and a doctor's assessment indicates it is appropriate, the dosage may be reduced.
Generally, the discontinuation sequence of lorazepam, quetiapine, and magnesium valproate should be determined by a physician based on an evaluation of the patient's condition; self-adjustment is not allowed. If there are any concerns, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. The specific analysis is as follows:
Lorazepam belongs to the benzodiazepine class of medications. Long-term use may lead to dependence, and abrupt discontinuation can easily trigger withdrawal symptoms such as increased anxiety, insomnia, and tremors. If discontinuation is necessary, the dose should be gradually reduced to prevent symptom rebound. Quetiapine is an antipsychotic medication used to stabilize mood and control psychiatric symptoms. If the condition is stable and the doctor determines that dosage reduction is appropriate, the dose may be adjusted according to medical instructions, but stopping the medication without authorization should be avoided to prevent symptom relapse. Magnesium valproate is a mood stabilizer commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Abrupt discontinuation may trigger manic or depressive episodes and must be tapered slowly under a doctor’s supervision.
If a patient is taking all three medications simultaneously, the physician will determine the discontinuation order based on the severity of the illness, drug side effects, and treatment response. For example, if anxiety symptoms have significantly improved, the lorazepam dose may be adjusted first; if psychiatric symptoms remain stable, quetiapine may be gradually reduced; if mood fluctuations decrease, magnesium valproate dosage may then be considered for adjustment.
During treatment, patients must strictly follow medical instructions, attend regular follow-up appointments to assess efficacy and safety, and must not discontinue or adjust dosages on their own, to avoid compromising treatment outcomes or worsening the condition.
