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Published on: August 16, 2018
Defining benzodiazepine dependence: The confusion persists
S M Linsen1, F G Zitman, M H Breteler
1Departments of Psychiatry, Catholic University Nijmegen, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
Summary
Benzodiazepine (BZD) dependence lacks clear definitions in scientific literature, hindering research on risks. Improving consensus on BZD dependence criteria is crucial for accurate data collection.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Psychiatry
- Medical Literature Analysis
Background:
- Benzodiazepine (BZD) dependence is a significant clinical concern.
- Existing literature shows considerable variation in defining BZD dependence and related concepts.
- Lack of consensus complicates accurate assessment of BZD dependence risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and analyze definitions of benzodiazepine dependence and related terms in scientific literature.
- To compare the content and consensus of these definitions.
- To identify the prevalence of different conceptualizations of dependence and addiction.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of papers published between 1988 and 1991 focusing on BZD effects in humans.
- Extraction and categorization of all dependence-related definitions from identified studies.
- Analysis of definition frequency and comparison for consensus.
Main Results:
- Out of 250 papers, 51 provided 126 dependence-related definitions.
- Few studies (6) referenced DSM criteria, and only one cited WHO definitions.
- The obsolete concept of addiction was frequently defined (13 times) with low consensus.
- Psychological and physical dependence were defined (29 times) but also showed low consensus.
Conclusions:
- Significant lack of consensus exists regarding the definition of benzodiazepine dependence and related concepts.
- Establishing clearer, agreed-upon criteria for benzodiazepine dependence is essential.
- Improved consensus will facilitate more reliable research on BZD dependence incidence, prevalence, and contributing factors.
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