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[Benzodiazepine consumption in Porto Alegre]
A C Wortmann1, M C Grüdtner, A F Fialho
1Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre.
Revista Da Associacao Medica Brasileira (1992)
|October 1, 1994
Summary
Benzodiazepine (BDZ) and over-the-counter tranquilizer use is widespread in adults in Porto Alegre, Brazil. High prevalence, particularly among women, highlights issues with indiscriminate use and the need for better regulation and education.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Benzodiazepines (BDZs) have been widely prescribed for anxiety since the 1960s.
- Indiscriminate use of BDZs and over-the-counter (OTC) tranquilizers is a growing concern.
- This study addresses the need for data on tranquilizer use in Brazil.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of benzodiazepine and OTC tranquilizer use among adults in Porto Alegre, Brazil.
- To identify demographic factors associated with tranquilizer use.
- To assess the frequency of tranquilizer consumption.
Summary:
- A 1991 survey of 480 adults in Porto Alegre revealed high lifetime (46.7%), past-year (21.3%), and past-month (13.11%) benzodiazepine use.
- Prevalence was significantly higher in women and those who were widowed or divorced.
- Over 40% reported frequent OTC tranquilizer use, with a 28.8% past-month prevalence.
Impact:
- Findings indicate a broad societal reliance on chemical substances for anxiety relief.
- Current legislation appears insufficient to control benzodiazepine and OTC tranquilizer misuse.
- Recommendations include enhanced physician and public education on appropriate use and stricter legal measures.