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Benzodiazepine dependence and withdrawal in elderly patients
E Schweizer1, W G Case, K Rickels
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|April 1, 1989
Summary
Elderly patients experienced less severe benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms and similar outcomes compared to younger adults. Gradual tapering was safe for both age groups, with no serious adverse events reported.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Benzodiazepine dependence is a significant clinical issue.
- Concerns exist regarding the safety and efficacy of benzodiazepine withdrawal in elderly populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the severity of withdrawal symptoms and clinical outcomes between elderly and younger benzodiazepine-dependent patients.
- To assess the safety of gradual benzodiazepine dose tapering in different age groups.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 19 elderly and 22 younger benzodiazepine-dependent patients.
- Patients were matched for benzodiazepine half-life, dosage, and duration of treatment.
- Gradual dose tapering was employed for benzodiazepine discontinuation.
Main Results:
- Elderly patients exhibited significantly less severe withdrawal symptoms on multiple clinical measures.
- Both elderly and younger groups achieved comparable favorable clinical outcomes.
- Approximately 50% of patients in each group remained benzodiazepine-free for at least 4 weeks.
- No serious adverse events like seizures or psychosis were observed in either group.
Conclusions:
- Gradual benzodiazepine tapering is a safe and effective strategy for both elderly and younger patients.
- Elderly individuals may experience a less severe withdrawal syndrome compared to younger counterparts.
- Benzodiazepine discontinuation through tapering does not pose a higher risk for the elderly.