Based on the Joint Clinical Practice Guideline on Benzodiazepine Tapering, this education program provides a comprehensive introduction to safe, effective, and patient-centered benzodiazepine (BZD) tapering. Designed for healthcare professionals across clinical settings, the program examines the risks of long-term benzodiazepine use, the distinction between physical dependence and use disorder, and strategies for individualized tapering that prioritize patient safety and engagement. 

Learners will explore evidence-based approaches to risk-benefit assessment, shared decision-making, symptom management, and care planning for diverse patient populations, including older adults and individuals with co-occurring mental health, or substance use disorders. The education also highlights communication strategies, common patient questions, and practical tools to support collaborative tapering and continuity of care. 

The development of this Guideline was generously funded by grant U01FD007804 from the US Food and Drug Administration, US Department of Health and Human Services. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of nor an endorsement by the FDA and Department of Health and Human Services or the US Government. The funders had no decision-making role in designing and conducting the systematic reviews, data collection, analysis, and interpretation of the data or approval privilege on the recommendations. As requested, FDA officers provided nonbinding feedback and technical support to the guideline panel and methodological team. This article was peer reviewed before publication. These guidelines are intended to help inform clinical decision making by prescribers and patients. They are not intended to be used for the purposes of restricting, limiting, delaying, or denying coverage for or access to a prescription issued for a legitimate medical purpose by an individual practitioner acting in the usual course of professional practice.