What condition may arise if someone abruptly ceases benzodiazepines after prolonged use?

When a person abruptly stops benzodiazepines after prolonged use, they may experience protracted withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants that can lead to physical dependence when used over an extended period. If these medications are suddenly discontinued, the body, which has become accustomed to their effects, may respond with a range of withdrawal symptoms. These can include heightened anxiety, agitation, insomnia, and in some cases, more severe reactions like seizures.

Protracted withdrawal refers to symptoms that can persist long after the acute withdrawal phase, sometimes lasting months. This phenomenon occurs because the body's neurochemistry has to readjust to functioning without the sedative effects of the medication. Therefore, the prolonged nature of these withdrawal symptoms highlights the importance of gradual tapering under medical supervision when discontinuing benzodiazepines to mitigate such risks.

The other options do not adequately represent the consequences of abrupt cessation of benzodiazepines, making protracted withdrawal the most relevant and accurate choice.