Plasma concentrations of benzodiazepines--a review of clinical findings and implications

Methods for benzodiazepine analysis are briefly discussed and the pharmacokinetics of the benzodiazepines reviewed. Studies of the relationship between plasma concentration and anxiolytic response have produced conflicting results. Routine monitoring in anxiety states is not warranted. Some specific indications for monitoring are in elderly patients; in cases of suspected non-compliance; in patients with renal and hepatic disease. The relationship between plasma concentration and ECG changes following benzodiazepine overdose showed that monitoring was of little value in these cases.