Benzodiazepines have an adverse effect on psychomotor and cognitive functions. A variety of behavioural and mood disturbances have been reported, including increased hostility, depression, antisocial behaviour, paranoid ideation, and suicidal tendencies. Benzodiazepines may produce pharmacological dependence in therapeutic dosage. Withdrawing a patient from benzodiazepines is duscussed, as well as the management of the withdrawal syndrome. 18 REFS.