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[Benzodiazepine use in the elderly: the EVA Study].
N Lechevallier1, A Fourrier, C Berr
1Département de Pharmacologie Clinique, Université Victor-Segalen-Bordeaux 2, 146, rue Léo-Saignat, 33076 Bordeaux Cedex. nathalie.lechevallier@pharmaco.u-bordeaux2.fr
Revue D'Epidemiologie Et De Sante Publique
|September 18, 2003
Summary
Benzodiazepine use is common in older adults, with many being chronic users. Factors like depression, anxiety, and other medications are associated with this usage pattern.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pharmacology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Benzodiazepine use among the elderly is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding associated factors is crucial for appropriate prescribing and patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe benzodiazepine utilization patterns in elderly individuals.
- To identify socio-demographic and medical factors linked to benzodiazepine use in this population.
Main Methods:
- A self-reported questionnaire was administered to 1265 elderly participants (aged 60-70) in the EVA Study.
- Data collected focused on the use of sedative and sleeping drugs, including benzodiazepines.
Main Results:
- 23% of participants reported benzodiazepine use, with 71% indicating anxiolytic indications and 48% using long-acting compounds.
- Chronic use (≥2 years) was reported by 77% of benzodiazepine users.
- Benzodiazepine use was associated with depression/anxiety symptoms and concurrent use of multiple non-psychotropic medications.
Conclusions:
- Benzodiazepines are the most prevalent sedative/hypnotic drugs among the elderly.
- A substantial proportion of elderly benzodiazepine users are chronic users, highlighting potential risks and management challenges.