Randomised controlled trial of carbamazepine assisted detoxification in patients with benzodiazepine dependence

INTERVENTION: 1. Carbamazepine assisted benzodiazepine detox for 2 weeks 2. Traditional gradual withdrawal of diazepam Observers will be blinded from allocation of groups. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) will be used to compare 2 groups. CONDITION: Mental and Behavioural Disorders: Addiction ; Mental and Behavioural Disorders ; Addiction PRIMARY OUTCOME: 1. Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptom questionnaire (30 items); 2. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (17 items) HAM‐D); 3. Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM‐A); 4. Abstinence rates from benzodiazepines; ; Patients will be assessed at 3 points: ; 1. Baseline; 2. 1 week after starting the detoxification; 3. 2 weeks (end of detoxification); ; Follow‐up interview or phone call will be made 4 weeks after discharge asking if patient are abstinent from benzodiazepines. SECONDARY OUTCOME: Not provided at time of registration INCLUSION CRITERIA: Patients (18‐65 years) who are admitted to Wentworth House or Kenyon House in‐patient units, and are using daily doses of benzodiazepine for at least 3 months.