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Current benzodiazepine issues

J H Woods1, G Winger

  • 1Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor 48109, USA.

Psychopharmacology
|March 1, 1995
PubMed
Summary

Benzodiazepine use is generally appropriate, though long-term use can cause physiological dependence and memory impairment, especially in the elderly. Nonmedical use is rare and typically linked to other drug abuse.

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Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Psychiatry
  • Geriatrics

Background:

  • Benzodiazepines are widely prescribed medications.
  • Concerns exist regarding their potential for abuse, dependence, and adverse effects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent evidence on the liability of benzodiazepines to cause abuse, dependence, and adverse behavioral effects.
  • To assess the risks associated with long-term benzodiazepine use, particularly in elderly patients.

Main Methods:

  • Review of epidemiological, clinical, and experimental literature.
  • Analysis of data on benzodiazepine use patterns, dependence, and behavioral effects.

Main Results:

  • The vast majority of benzodiazepine use is appropriate; nonmedical use is primarily associated with individuals abusing other drugs.
  • Chronic benzodiazepine use can lead to physiological dependence, causing discomfort upon abrupt discontinuation.
  • Shorter-acting benzodiazepines may cause more intense withdrawal syndromes.
  • Elderly patients exhibit higher rates of chronic benzodiazepine use and are more susceptible to memory impairment caused by these drugs.

Conclusions:

  • While benzodiazepine abuse is not widespread, long-term use carries risks of physiological dependence and withdrawal.
  • Memory impairment is a significant adverse effect, particularly concerning for the elderly.
  • Physicians should consider the risks of dependence and cognitive impairment, especially when prescribing to older populations.

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