31st January 2024

Diagnosis

As previously discussed, a careful history and examination will be required if a person presents with signs and/or symptoms of sedative overdose or withdrawal. Where required, a neurological examination and delirium screen may be needed, depending on presentation, as well as a workup for any other suspected cause of symptoms. Short-acting benzodiazepines can be detected in urine for 1-3 days, whereas long-acting benzodiazepines can be detected for up to 6 weeks post-ingestion.