Syndrome de sevrage aux benzodiazépines ou apparentés au cours d’une hospitalisation, à propos de 22 cas

[Retrospective study of the assessment and management of benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome in hospital between 2000 and 2015]

INTRODUCTION

Benzodiazepines are prescribed in many indications and are provider of adverse effects in case of abrupt withdrawal or poorly framed. Withdrawal rules are established by the High Authority for Health.

METHODS

To evaluate the diagnostic and therapeutic modalities of the benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome, we performed a retrospective single-center study at the University Hospital of Reims, between January 2000 and May 2015, in patients with a withdrawal syndrome following hospital coding. A collection of clinical and laboratory data was performed for each patient, as well as how to obtain the diagnosis, their care and their future.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight cases were initially collected, but 16 cases were included. In benzodiazepine withdrawal took place outside the hospital in 68% of cases. The causes were varied: lack of renewal, not issued by the pharmacist, pill errors. Disorders found during the withdrawal symptoms were variable, there were particular digestive, neurological and psychiatric disorders. The use of biological assessments did not provide diagnostic support, however, in 68% of cases a toxicological assay has helped to support. The management of the withdrawal syndrome has been done primarily by reintroducing the same treatment (60%), while in 27% of alprazolam is introduced relay benzodiazepines. It is noted one death possibly linked to the withdrawal syndrome.

CONCLUSION

Despite recommendations and information about the terms of stops, some clinical situations result in withdrawal symptoms, a patient died in our study, death appears in connection with the withdrawal situation. Note that the human factor is the main factor related to the circumstances of occurrence of withdrawal.