Can a benzo cause sleep apnea and should a benzo be stopped if you develope sleep apnea?

Can cause apnea: Benzodiazepines can affect the sensorium and depress respiratory drive usually at higher dosing. These effects can cause apnea which is pause spontaneous respiration. Sleep apnea is a disorder that results in apneic periods while someone sleeps. Benzodiazepines should be used cautiously in all cases, but increased caution if you have sleep apnea.

Stop the benzo: Benzodiazepines can worsen sleep apnea physiologically, and can prevent you from awakening as your brain might need you to awaken for oxygenation and elimination of carbon dioxide. They should be avoided in those with sleep apnea.