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Cruz-Sanabria F, Bruno S, Crippa A, Frumento P, Scarselli M, Skene DJ, Faraguna U. Optimizing the Time and Dose of Melatonin as a Sleep-Promoting Drug: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis. J Pineal Res 2024; 76:e12985. [PMID: 38888087 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies have reported inconsistent results about exogenous melatonin's sleep-promoting effects. A possible explanation relies on the heterogeneity in administration schedule and dose, which might be accountable for differences in treatment efficacy. In this paper, we undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis of double-blind, randomized controlled trials performed on patients with insomnia and healthy volunteers, evaluating the effect of melatonin administration on sleep-related parameters. The standardized mean difference between treatment and placebo groups in terms of sleep onset latency and total sleep time were used as outcomes. Dose-response and meta-regression models were estimated to explore how time of administration, dose, and other treatment-related parameters might affect exogenous melatonin's efficacy. We included 26 randomized controlled trials published between 1987 and 2020, for a total of 1689 observations. Dose-response meta-analysis showed that melatonin gradually reduces sleep onset latency and increases total sleep time, peaking at 4 mg/day. Meta-regression models showed that insomnia status (β = 0.50, p < 0.001) and time between treatment administration and the sleep episode (β = -0.16, p = 0.023) were significant predictors of sleep onset latency, while the time of day (β = -0.086, p < 0.01) was the only significant predictor of total sleep time. Our results suggest that advancing the timing of administration (3 h before the desired bedtime) and increasing the administered dose (4 mg/day), as compared to the exogenous melatonin schedule most used in clinical practice (2 mg 30 min before the desired bedtime), might optimize the efficacy of exogenous melatonin in promoting sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francy Cruz-Sanabria
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Fondazione Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
| | - Simone Bruno
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessio Crippa
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paolo Frumento
- Department of Political Sciences, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Scarselli
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Debra J Skene
- Chronobiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Ugo Faraguna
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Fondazione Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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2
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Trager RJ, Cupler ZA, DeLano KJ, Perez JA, Dusek JA. Association between chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy and benzodiazepine prescription in patients with radicular low back pain: a retrospective cohort study using real-world data from the USA. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058769. [PMID: 35697464 PMCID: PMC9196200 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy (CSMT) and prescription benzodiazepines are common treatments for radicular low back pain (rLBP), no research has examined the relationship between these interventions. We hypothesise that utilisation of CSMT for newly diagnosed rLBP is associated with reduced odds of benzodiazepine prescription through 12 months' follow-up. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING National, multicentre 73-million-patient electronic health records-based network (TriNetX) in the USA, queried on 30 July 2021, yielding data from 2003 to the date of query. PARTICIPANTS Adults aged 18-49 with an index diagnosis of rLBP were included. Serious aetiologies of low back pain, structural deformities, alternative neurological lesions and absolute benzodiazepine contraindications were excluded. Patients were assigned to cohorts according to CSMT receipt or absence. Propensity score matching was used to control for covariates that could influence the likelihood of benzodiazepine utilisation. OUTCOME MEASURES The number, percentage and OR of patients receiving a benzodiazepine prescription over 3, 6 and 12 months' follow-up prematching and postmatching. RESULTS After matching, there were 9206 patients (mean (SD) age, 37.6 (8.3) years, 54% male) per cohort. Odds of receiving a benzodiazepine prescription were significantly lower in the CSMT cohort over all follow-up windows prematching and postmatching (p<0.0001). After matching, the OR (95% CI) of benzodiazepine prescription at 3 months was 0.56 (0.50 to 0.64), at 6 months 0.61 (0.55 to 0.68) and 12 months 0.67 (0.62 to 0.74). Sensitivity analysis suggested a patient preference to avoid prescription medications did not explain the study findings. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that receiving CSMT for newly diagnosed rLBP is associated with reduced odds of receiving a benzodiazepine prescription during follow-up. These results provide real-world evidence of practice guideline-concordance among patients entering this care pathway. Benzodiazepine prescription for rLBP should be further examined in a randomised trial including patients receiving chiropractic or usual medical care, to reduce residual confounding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert James Trager
- Connor Whole Health, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Zachary A Cupler
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitative Services, Butler VA Health Care System, Butler, Pennsylvania, USA
- Institute for Clinical Research Education, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kayla J DeLano
- Clinical Research Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jaime A Perez
- Clinical Research Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jeffery A Dusek
- Connor Whole Health, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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3
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Burry L, Turner J, Morgenthaler T, Tannenbaum C, Cho HJ, Gathecha E, Kisuule F, Vijenthira A, Soong C. Addressing Barriers to Reducing Prescribing and Implementing Deprescribing of Sedative-Hypnotics in Primary Care. Ann Pharmacother 2021; 56:463-474. [PMID: 34301151 PMCID: PMC8899816 DOI: 10.1177/10600280211033022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To describe interventions that target patient, provider, and system barriers
to sedative-hypnotic (SH) deprescribing in the community and suggest
strategies for healthcare teams. Data Sources: Ovid MEDLINE ALL and EMBASE Classic + EMBASE (March 10, 2021). Study Selection and Data Extraction: English-language studies in primary care settings. Data Synthesis: 20 studies were themed as patient-related and prescriber inertia, physician
skills and awareness, and health system constraints. Patient education
strategies reduced SH dose for 10% to 62% of participants, leading to
discontinuation in 13% to 80% of participants. Policy interventions reduced
targeted medication use by 10% to 50%. Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice: Patient engagement and empowerment successfully convince patients to
deprescribe chronic SHs. Quality improvement strategies should also consider
interventions directed at prescribers, including education and training,
drug utilization reviews, or computer alerts indicating a potentially
inappropriate prescription by medication, age, dose, or disease. Educational
interventions were effective when they facilitated patient engagement and
provided information on the harms and limited evidence supporting chronic
use as well as the effectiveness of alternatives. Decision support tools
were less effective than prescriber education with patient engagement,
although they can be readily incorporated in the workflow through
prescribing software. Conclusions: Several strategies with demonstrated efficacy in reducing SH use in community
practice were identified. Education regarding SH risks, how to taper, and
potential alternatives are essential details to provide to clinicians,
patients, and families. The strategies presented can guide community
healthcare teams toward reducing the community burden of SH use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Burry
- Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Justin Turner
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | | | - Hyung J Cho
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Lown Institute, Brookline, Massachusetts, MA, USA
| | | | - Flora Kisuule
- Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Christine Soong
- Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Turner JP, Sanyal C, Martin P, Tannenbaum C. Economic Evaluation of Sedative Deprescribing in Older Adults by Community Pharmacists. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2020; 76:1061-1067. [DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glaa180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Sedative use in older adults increases the risk of falls, fractures, and hospitalizations. The D-PRESCRIBE (Developing Pharmacist-Led Research to Educate and Sensitize Community Residents to the Inappropriate Prescriptions Burden in the Elderly), pragmatic randomized clinical trial demonstrated that community-based, pharmacist-led education delivered simultaneously to older adults and their primary care providers reduce the use of sedatives by 43% over 6 months. However, the associated health benefits and cost savings have yet to be described. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of the D-PRESCRIBE intervention compared to usual care for reducing the use of potentially inappropriate sedatives among older adults.
Methods
A cost-utility analysis from the public health care perspective of Canada estimated the costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) associated with the D-PRESCRIBE intervention compared to usual care over a 1-year time horizon. Transition probabilities, intervention effectiveness, utility, and costs were derived from the literature. Probabilistic analyses were performed using a decision tree and Markov model to estimate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio.
Results
Compared to usual care, pharmacist-led deprescribing is less costly (−$1392.05 CAD) and more effective (0.0769 QALYs). Using common willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds of $50 000 and $100 000, D-PRESCRIBE was the optimal strategy. Scenario analysis indicated the cost-effectiveness of D-PRESCRIBE is sensitive to the rate of deprescribing.
Conclusions
Community pharmacist-led deprescribing of sedatives is cost-effective, leading to greater quality-of-life and harm reduction among older adults. As the pharmacist’s scope of practice expands, consideration should be given to interprofessional models of remuneration for quality prescribing and deprescribing services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin P Turner
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche, Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Philippe Martin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche, Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Cara Tannenbaum
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Neville HL, Losier M, Pitman J, Gehrig M, Isenor JE, Minard LV, Penny E, Bowles SK. Point Prevalence Survey of Benzodiazepine and Sedative-Hypnotic Drug Use in Hospitalized Adult Patients. Can J Hosp Pharm 2020; 73:193-201. [PMID: 32616945 PMCID: PMC7308153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Benzodiazepines and sedative-hypnotic drugs (BZD/SHDs), such as zopiclone and the antidepressant trazodone, pose risks such as falls, fractures, and confusion, especially for older adults. Use of these drugs in the acute care setting is poorly understood. OBJECTIVES To determine the point prevalence and characteristics of use of BZD/SHDs in hospitals in Nova Scotia, Canada. METHODS A point prevalence survey was conducted for adults admitted to all hospitals with at least 30 acute care beds between May and August 2016. Drugs administered intravenously, patients in long-term care, and patients receiving mental health services, addiction treatment, or critical care were excluded. The proportion of included patients who had received a BZD/SHD within the 24 h before the start of the survey was determined. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS Overall BZD/SHD prevalence was 34.6% (487/1409) across the 16 eligible hospitals. The average age was 70.3 years, and 150 (30.8%) of the patients were 80 years or older. Among the 585 prescriptions for these patients, commonly used drugs were zopiclone (32.0%), lorazepam (21.9%), and trazodone (21.9%). The most common indications for use were bedtime/daytime sedation (60.0%) and anxiety (12.5%). More than half of the prescriptions (55.7%) had been initiated at home, 37.6% were started in hospital, and the place of initiation was unknown for 6.7%. Benzodiazepines were prescribed more frequently to patients under 65 years than those 80 years or older (41.3% versus 22.2%, p < 0.001) whereas trazodone was more frequently prescribed to the older of these 2 age groups (52.7% versus 14.3%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS BZD/SHDs were frequently used by hospitalized adult patients in Nova Scotia. Trazodone appears to have been substituted for benzodiazepines in the oldest age group. Pharmacists should direct their efforts toward preventing inappropriate initiation of BZD/SHDs in hospital, particularly for elderly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Neville
- , BScPharm, MSc, FCSHP, is with the Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia
| | - Mia Losier
- , BScPharm, ACPR, was, at the time of this study, with the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the College of Pharmacy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia. She is now with Horizon Health Network, Saint John, New Brunswick
| | - Jennifer Pitman
- , BScMedSc, BScPharm, ACPR, was, at the time of this study, with the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the College of Pharmacy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia. She is now with the Vancouver Island Health Authority, Victoria, British Columbia
| | - Melissa Gehrig
- , BSc(Hons), BScPharm, MSc, is with the Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia
| | - Jennifer E Isenor
- , BScPharm, PharmD, is with the College of Pharmacy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia
| | - Laura V Minard
- , BSc, BScPharm, ACPR, PhD, is with the Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia
| | - Ellen Penny
- , BScPharm, PharmD, BCGP, is with the Nova Scotia Health Authority, Sydney, Nova Scotia
| | - Susan K Bowles
- , BScPhm, MSc, PharmD, FCSHP, is with the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the College of Pharmacy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia
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6
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Arbus C, Hergueta T, Duburcq A, Saleh A, Le Guern ME, Robert P, Camus V. Adjustment disorder with anxiety in old age: Comparing prevalence and clinical management in primary care and mental health care. Eur Psychiatry 2020; 29:233-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2013.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Revised: 03/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/17/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractPurpose:Adjustment disorder with anxiety (AjD-A) is a common cause of severe anxiety symptoms, but little is known about its prevalence in old age.Methods:This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence of AjD-A in outpatients over the age of 60 who consecutively consulted 34 general practitioners and 22 psychiatrists during a 2-week period. The diagnosis of AjD-A was obtained using the optional module for diagnostic of adjustment disorder of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). The study procedure also explored comorbid psychiatric conditions and documented recent past stressful life events, as well as social disability and current pharmacological and non-pharmacological management.Results:Overall, 3651 consecutive subjects were screened (2937 in primary care and 714 in mental health care). The prevalence rate of AjD-A was 3.7% (n = 136). Up to 39% (n = 53) of AjD-A subjects had a comorbid psychiatric condition, mostly of the anxious type. The most frequently stressful life event reported to be associated with the onset of AjD-A was personal illness or health problem (29%). More than 50% of the AjD-A patients were markedly to extremely disabled by their symptoms. Compared to patients who consulted psychiatrists, patients who were seen by primary care physicians were older, had obtained lower scores at the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, benefited less frequently from non-pharmacological management and received benzodiazepines more frequently.Conclusions:AjD-A appears to be a significantly disabling cause of anxiety symptoms in community dwelling elderly persons, in particular those presenting personal health related problems. Improvement of early diagnosis and non-pharmacological management of AjD-A would contribute to limit risks of benzodiazepine overuse, particularly in primary care settings.
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7
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Downie SP, Wood PJ, Summers RJ, McDonough M, Wong GOY. Hospital discharge opioid guidelines and policies: a Victorian survey. JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/jppr.1449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shane P. Downie
- Department of Pharmacy and Applied Science; La Trobe University; Bendigo Australia
| | - Penelope J. Wood
- Department of Pharmacy and Applied Science; La Trobe University; Bendigo Australia
| | - Richard J. Summers
- Department of Pharmacy and Applied Science; La Trobe University; Bendigo Australia
| | - Michael McDonough
- Department of Drug Health Service; Western Health; Melbourne Australia
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8
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Deprescribing Benzodiazepines in Older Patients: Impact of Interventions Targeting Physicians, Pharmacists, and Patients. Drugs Aging 2018; 35:493-521. [PMID: 29705831 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-018-0544-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Benzodiazepines (BZDs; including the related Z-drugs) are frequently targets for deprescribing; long-term use in older people is harmful and often not beneficial. BZDs can result in significant harms, including falls, fractures, cognitive impairment, car crashes and a significant financial and legal burden to society. Deprescribing BZDs is problematic due to a complex interaction of drug, patient, physician and systematic barriers, including concern about a potentially distressing but rarely fatal withdrawal syndrome. Multiple studies have trialled interventions to deprescribe BZDs in older people and are discussed in this narrative review. Reported success rates of deprescribing BZD interventions range between 27 and 80%, and this variability can be attributed to heterogeneity of methodological approaches and limited generalisability to cognitively impaired patients. Interventions targeting the patient and/or carer include raising awareness (direct-to-consumer education, minimal interventions, and 'one-off' geriatrician counselling) and resourcing the patient (gradual dose reduction [GDR] with or without cognitive behavioural therapy, teaching relaxation techniques, and sleep hygiene). These are effective if the patient is motivated to cease and is not significantly cognitively impaired. Interventions targeted to physicians include prescribing interventions by audit, algorithm or medication review, and providing supervised GDR in combination with medication substitution. Pharmacists have less frequently been the targets for studies, but have key roles in several multifaceted interventions. Interventions are evaluated according to the Behaviour Change Wheel. Research supports trialling a stepwise approach in the cognitively intact older person, but having a low threshold to use less-consultative methods in patients with dementia. Several resources are available to support deprescribing of BZDs in clinical practice, including online protocols.
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9
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Tan S, Metzger DB, Jung ME. Chronic benzodiazepine suppresses translocator protein and elevates amyloid β in mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2018; 172:59-67. [PMID: 30030126 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2018.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Benzodiazepine (BZD) is a commonly prescribed anxiolytic and sedation aid medication, especially in elderly women. However, long-term use of BZD provokes adverse nontherapeutic effects that include movement deficit. Here, we investigated motoric deficit and molecular changes in cerebellum associated with the chronic use of BZD (cBZD) in female mice. We measured neuroprotective translocator protein (TSPO), neurotoxic amyloid β (Aβ), Aβ-producing presenilin-1 (PS1), and Aβ-degrading neprilysin. We also tested whether cBZD treatment damages mitochondrial membranes by measuring mitochondrial membrane swelling and mitochondrial respiration. Young and old mice received BZD (lorazepam) for 20 days, were tested for motoric function using Rotarod, and then euthanized to collect cerebellum. The major methods were immunoblot and RT-PCR for TSPO, PS1, and neprilysin expressions; ELISA for Aβ level; spectrometry for mitochondrial membrane swelling; XF-respirometry for mitochondrial respiration. cBZD-treated old mice showed poorer motoric function than old control or young cBZD-treated mice. Old mice treated with cBZD showed a decrease in TSPO and neprilysin and an increase in Aβ and PS1 production compared to old control mice. Old cBZD-mice also showed an increase in mitochondrial membrane swelling and a decrease in mitochondrial respiration. These data suggest that cBZD exacerbates motoric aging in a manner that involves diminished TSPO, elevated Aβ, and mitochondrial damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Tan
- Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, 3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States of America
| | - Daniel B Metzger
- Institute for Health Aging, 3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States of America
| | - Marianna E Jung
- Pharmacology and Neuroscience, UNT Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States of America.
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10
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Saarelainen L, Taipale H, Koponen M, Tanskanen A, Tolppanen AM, Tiihonen J, Hartikainen S. The Incidence of Benzodiazepine and Related Drug Use in Persons with and without Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2016; 49:809-18. [PMID: 26484930 DOI: 10.3233/jad-150630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Benzodiazepines and related drugs (BZDR) are occasionally used to treat certain symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the risks related to BZDR use are high in older persons. Although frequent BZDR use has been reported in persons with AD, no previous study has focused specifically on the incidence of BZDR use in this population. OBJECTIVE We investigated the incidence of BZDR use in persons with and without AD during a five-year follow-up. METHODS The Finnish nationwide, register-based MEDALZ cohort includes all AD cases who received a clinically verified AD diagnosis in 2005-2011 (n = 70,718) and their matched comparison persons. Incidence of BZDR, including benzodiazepines (lorazepam, oxazepam, temazepam, alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, and nitrazepam) and Z-drugs (zolpidem and zopiclone), use was investigated in the cohort from two years before to three years after the diagnosis of AD. Further, initial BZDRs were investigated. RESULTS The incidence of BZDR use was higher in persons with AD starting from 12 months before the diagnosis and peaked at six months after the diagnosis of AD (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 2.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.5-2.8). Benzodiazepines were more frequently initiated by persons with AD, with the incidence peaking at six months after the diagnosis (IRR = 4.5, 95% CI = 4.1-4.9) and remaining over three times higher than in comparison persons until three years after the diagnosis. CONCLUSION Early symptomatic treatment with BZDRs is contrary to AD treatment guidelines. As BZDRs impair cognition, the observed early treatment with BZDRs may complicate the monitoring of AD treatment effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Saarelainen
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Heidi Taipale
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Research Centre for Comparative Effectiveness and Patient Safety, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Marjaana Koponen
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Antti Tanskanen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Impact Assessment Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Anna-Maija Tolppanen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Research Centre for Comparative Effectiveness and Patient Safety, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jari Tiihonen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sirpa Hartikainen
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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11
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de Souto Barreto P, Lapeyre-Mestre M, Cestac P, Vellas B, Rolland Y. Effects of a geriatric intervention aiming to improve quality care in nursing homes on benzodiazepine use and discontinuation. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 81:759-67. [PMID: 26613560 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Benzodiazepines and "Z drugs" are often prescribed in residents of nursing homes (NH) despite their well-known deleterious effects. We aimed to investigate if a general intervention on quality of care led to discontinuation of benzodiazepine, and to examine which NH-related factors were associated in change of benzodiazepines use. METHODS IQUARE is a quasi-experimental study, investigating the impact of an intervention based on a geriatric education with NH staff on several quality indicators of care (including appropriate prescriptions). All participating NH received an initial and 18-month audit regarding drug prescriptions and other quality of care variables. The analysis included 3973 residents, 2151 subjects (mean age: 84.6 ± 8.5 years; 74.3% women) in the control group and 1822 (mean age: 85.5 ± 8.1 years; 77.4% women) in the intervention group. Outcomes at 18 months were benzodiazepines use, long-acting benzodiazepines use, new-use of benzodiazepines, and discontinuation. The effect of the intervention was investigated using mixed-effect logistic regression models, including NH variables and residents' health status as confounders. RESULTS Higher reductions in benzodiazepine use (-2.8% vs. -1.5%) and long-acting benzodiazepine (-3.7% vs. -3.5%) were observed in intervention group, but not statistically significant. None of the structural and organisational NH-related variables predicted either discontinuation or new-use of benzodiazepines; hospitalisations and initial use of meprobamate increased the likelihood of becoming a new-user of benzodiazepines. Multivariate analysis suggested that living in a particular NH could affect benzodiazepines discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS A general intervention designed to improve overall NH quality indicators did not succeed in reducing benzodiazepines use. External factors interfered with the intervention. Further studies are needed to examine which NH-related aspects could impact benzodiazepines discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipe de Souto Barreto
- Gérontopôle de Toulouse, Institut du Vieillissement, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Toulouse (CHU Toulouse), Toulouse.,UMR7268 Aix-Marseille Univ., Laboratoire d'Anthropologie bioculturelle, droit, éthique et santé
| | - Maryse Lapeyre-Mestre
- UMR INSERM 1027, University of Toulouse III, Toulouse.,Service de Pharmacologie Médicale et Clinique, CIC Inserm 1436, CHU de Toulouse, 37 Allees Jules Guesde, F-31000, Toulouse
| | - Philippe Cestac
- UMR INSERM 1027, University of Toulouse III, Toulouse.,Pôle Pharmacie, CHU de Toulouse, 1 avenue Jean Poulhès, F 31059, Toulouse, France
| | - Bruno Vellas
- Gérontopôle de Toulouse, Institut du Vieillissement, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Toulouse (CHU Toulouse), Toulouse.,UMR INSERM 1027, University of Toulouse III, Toulouse
| | - Yves Rolland
- Gérontopôle de Toulouse, Institut du Vieillissement, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Toulouse (CHU Toulouse), Toulouse.,UMR INSERM 1027, University of Toulouse III, Toulouse
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Long-term use of benzodiazepines: Definitions, prevalence and usage patterns – a systematic review of register-based studies. Eur Psychiatry 2015; 30:1037-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2015.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractBackgroundNumerous treatment guidelines recommend that long-term use of benzodiazepines (BZD) should be avoided primarily due to development of tolerance and a risk for BZD dependence. Despite this, long-term BZD use remains a controversial subject in clinical patient care with “for and against” debates. However, there is no explicit understanding of what is meant by long-term BZD use in real world. The aim of this study was to assess different definitions, usage patterns, prevalence and other characteristics of long-term BZD use based on published register-based studies. Synthesis of these characteristics is essential to derive a meaningful definition of long-term BZD.MethodsSystematic review of register-based studies on long-term BZD use published in 1994–2014.ResultsFourty-one studies met our predetermined inclusion criteria. The length of BZD use defined as “long-term” varied in these studies ranging from one month to several years. The most common definition was six months or longer during a year. The prevalence of long-term BZD use in the general population was estimated to be about 3%. The relative proportion of long-term BZD users (all definitions) in adult BZD users ranged from 6% to 76% (mean 24%; 95% CL 13–36%). The estimates were higher in studies only on the elderly (47%; 95% CL 31–64%). Long-term use involved typically steady treatment with low BZD doses. However, in elderly patients long-term BZD use and exceeding recommended doses was relatively common. Several characteristics associated with long-term use were found.ConclusionsLong-term BZD use is common and a clinical reality. Uniform definitions for “long-term”, which is in line with population-based evidence, is needed to have more comparable results between studies. Our systematic review suggests that duration of BZD treatment over six months, the most common definition for long-term BZD use in the included studies. As also recommended previously, it is a useful starting point for further analyses on disadvantages but also potential advantages associated with long-term BZD use.
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Alvarenga JM, Loyola Filho AID, Giacomin KC, Uchoa E, Firmo JOA. Uso de benzodiazepínicos entre idosos: o alívio de "jogar água no fogo", não pensar e dormir. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE GERIATRIA E GERONTOLOGIA 2015. [DOI: 10.1590/1809-9823.2015.14045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJETIVO: Compreender a percepção e os significados que os idosos atribuem a suas experiências relacionadas ao uso prolongado de benzodiazepínicos. MÉTODOS: Trabalho de abordagem qualitativa, de cunho antropológico, realizado junto a idosos participantes do Projeto Bambuí, estudo de base populacional sobre as condições de saúde da população idosa, realizado na cidade de Bambuí-MG. Foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas com 22 idosos, sem comprometimento cognitivo e residentes na cidade de Bambuí-MG, que relataram uso de medicação benzodiazepínica. RESULTADOS: No grupo pesquisado, o uso de benzodiazepínicos foi compatível com a definição de "padrão de uso crônico", variando de seis meses a 40 anos, sendo o medicamento mais utilizado o Clonazepam. A coleta e análise dos dados foram guiadas pelo modelo de signos, significados e ações. Emergiram como categorias: a utilização de um remédio "muito bom"; o remédio bom que "parece que vicia"; a (des)obediência à prescrição médica; e o alívio. CONCLUSÃO: Os idosos entrevistados justificam o uso crônico de benzodiazepínicos como um paliativo para lidar com dificuldades existenciais decorrentes de situações culturais, sociais e familiares, as quais precisam ser abordadas nos serviços de saúde.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Elizabeth Uchoa
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Brasil; Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Brasil
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14
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Tannenbaum C, Diaby V, Singh D, Perreault S, Luc M, Vasiliadis HM. Sedative-Hypnotic Medicines and Falls in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Cost-Effectiveness (Decision-Tree) Analysis from a US Medicare Perspective. Drugs Aging 2015; 32:305-14. [DOI: 10.1007/s40266-015-0251-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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15
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Abstract
Polypharmacy, specifically the overuse and misuse of medications, is associated with adverse health events, increased disability, hospitalizations, and mortality. Mechanisms through which polypharmacy may increase adverse health outcomes include decreased adherence, increased drug side effects, higher use of potentially inappropriate medications, and more frequent drug-drug interactions. This article reviews clinical problems associated with polypharmacy and presents a framework to optimize prescribing for older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Wallace
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 East 17th Avenue, B-179, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Douglas S Paauw
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, 4245 Roosevelt way NE, #MC354760, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
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Managing therapeutic competition in patients with heart failure, lower urinary tract symptoms and incontinence. Drugs Aging 2014; 31:93-101. [PMID: 24357134 PMCID: PMC3907694 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-013-0145-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Up to 50 % of heart failure patients suffer from lower urinary tract symptoms. Urinary incontinence has been associated with worse functional status in patients with heart failure, occurring three times more frequently in patients with New York Heart Association Class III and IV symptoms compared with those with milder disease. The association between heart failure and urinary symptoms may be directly attributable to worsening heart failure pathophysiology; however, medications used to treat heart failure may also indirectly provoke or exacerbate urinary symptoms. This type of drug–disease interaction, in which the treatment for heart failure precipitates incontinence, and removal of medications to relieve incontinence worsens heart failure, can be termed therapeutic competition. The mechanisms by which heart failure medication such as diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and β-blockers aggravate lower urinary tract symptoms are discussed. Initiation of a prescribing cascade, whereby antimuscarinic agents or β3-agonists are added to treat symptoms of urinary urgency and incontinence, is best avoided. Recommendations and practical tips are provided that outline more judicious management of heart failure patients with lower urinary tract symptoms. Compelling strategies to improve urinary outcomes include titrating diuretics, switching ACE inhibitors, treating lower urinary tract infections, appropriate fluid management, daily weighing, and uptake of pelvic floor muscle exercises.
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Koyama A, Steinman M, Ensrud K, Hillier TA, Yaffe K. Long-term cognitive and functional effects of potentially inappropriate medications in older women. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2013; 69:423-9. [PMID: 24293516 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glt192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of potentially inappropriate medications in older adults can lead to known adverse drug events, but long-term effects are less clear. We therefore conducted a prospective cohort study of older women to determine whether PIM use is associated with risk of functional impairment or low cognitive performance. METHODS We followed up 1,429 community-dwelling women (≥ 75 years) for a period of 5 years at four clinical sites in the United States. The primary predictor at baseline was PIM use based on 2003 Beers Criteria. We also assessed anticholinergic load using the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden scale. Outcomes included scores on a battery of six cognitive tests at follow-up and having one or more incident impairments in instrumental activities of daily living. Regression models were adjusted for baseline age, race, education, smoking, physical activity, a modified Charlson Comorbidity Index, and cognitive score. RESULTS The mean ± SD age of women at baseline was 83.2 ± 3.3. In multivariate models, baseline PIM use and higher ACB scores were significantly associated with poorer performance in category fluency (PIM: p = .01; ACB: p = .02) and immediate (PIM: p = .04; ACB: p = .03) and delayed recall (PIM: p = .04). Both PIM use (odds ratio [OR]: 1.36 [1.05-1.75]) and higher ACB scores (OR: 1.11 [1.04-1.19]) were also strongly associated with incident functional impairment. CONCLUSIONS The results provide suggestive evidence that PIM use and increased anticholinergic load may be associated with risk of functional impairment and low cognitive performance. More cautious selection of medications in older adults may reduce these potential risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Koyama
- 4150 Clement St, VAMC 116H, San Francisco, CA 94121.
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