Benzodiazepine usage and patient preference for alternative therapies: A descriptive study

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Behavioural Science
• Primary Care Medicine

Background:

• Chronic benzodiazepine use is prevalent despite adverse effects and available alternatives.
• Understanding user factors is crucial for developing effective benzodiazepine withdrawal strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify patient factors influencing long-term benzodiazepine use.
• Explore past withdrawal experiences and future intentions towards alternative behavioral therapies.
• Determine preferred information sources for behavioral therapies.

Main Methods:

• Point-of-purchase surveys conducted in New South Wales (NSW) pharmacies.
• Utilized Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire (BMQ-specific) and sociodemographic questions.
• Assessed views on long-term benzodiazepine use and behavioral therapies.

Main Results:

• Lower education, stronger necessity beliefs, and lower concern were linked to prolonged benzodiazepine use.
• 64% of participants showed no interest in behavioral therapies.
• Concerns about benzodiazepine side effects correlated with interest in behavioral therapies.
• General practitioners (GPs) and pharmacists were preferred information sources.

Conclusions:

• Sociodemographic factors and medication beliefs significantly impact benzodiazepine use and willingness to try alternatives.
• GP-pharmacist collaborative services could enhance the adoption of behavioral therapies for benzodiazepine dependence.