An Unusual Case of Alprazolam Withdrawal in the Post-operative Period

Alprazolam is a commonly used anxiolytic with a high potential for abuse. We report a case of alprazolam withdrawal manifesting as a generalised tonic-clonic seizure 48 h after the last dose, occurring in the immediate post-operative period following curative surgery for carcinoma tongue. The patient had been taking 3–4 mg of alprazolam daily for several years before surgery. Due to impending respiratory failure and loss of consciousness, the patient’s trachea was intubated for airway protection. A thorough drug history, early reintroduction of alprazolam in the post-operative period and close monitoring for withdrawal symptoms are essential to prevent dismal outcomes.