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DSM-III-R co-morbidity in benzodiazepine dependence.
H Martínez-Cano1, M de Iceta Ibáñez de Gauna, A Vela-Bueno
1Departamento de Psiquiatría, Hospital Universitario La Princesa, Madrid, Spain. miceta@lander.es
Addiction (Abingdon, England)
|February 9, 2000
Summary
Benzodiazepine dependence rarely occurs alone, often co-occurring with mental and physical health conditions. Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations are crucial before prescribing these medications.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Comorbidity significantly impacts the clinical progression of mental health disorders.
- Understanding comorbidity patterns in benzodiazepine dependence is essential for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and patterns of comorbidity across DSM-III-R Axes I, II, and III in individuals dependent on benzodiazepines.
- To explore potential predisposing factors and propose a sequential model for benzodiazepine dependence.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 153 individuals diagnosed with benzodiazepine dependence was evaluated.
- In-depth clinical interviews were conducted across all five DSM-III-R axes for each patient.
- DSM-III-R (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 3rd Edition-Revised) criteria were used for diagnosis.
Main Results:
- All patients exhibited comorbidity across at least one DSM-III-R axis.
- Axis I: Insomnia, anxiety, and affective disorders were most prevalent.
- Axis II: Obsessive-compulsive, histrionic, and dependent personality disorders were common.
- Axis III: Rheumatological, neurological, and cardiovascular disorders were frequently observed.
Conclusions:
- Benzodiazepine dependence was never observed as an isolated condition.
- Significant associations within and between diagnostic axes suggest potential predisposing factors.
- The findings underscore the necessity of thorough diagnostic assessments before initiating benzodiazepine prescriptions.