Mirtazapine Was Effective for a Patient With Benzodiazepine Dependence.

OBJECTIVE

Benzodiazepine (BZD) dependence has become a social problem and results in poor outcomes. Only a few evidence-based treatments for pharmacotherapy, including antidepressants, are recommended.

METHODS

We reported about a 71-year-old man with onset of blindness at 50 years of age due to pigmentary degeneration of the retina developed insomnia at age 59 years, characterized by nocturnal and early morning awakenings.

RESULTS

Mirtazapine was effective to not only treat sleep disturbance but also a craving for BZD.

CONCLUSIONS

The increases of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin signaling by mirtazapine may be related to the effectiveness in reducing BZD dependence.