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Zamboni L, Portoghese I, Casari R, Fusina F, Santin L, Lecca LI, Campagnari S, Carli S, Zandonai T, Lugoboni F. High-dose benzodiazepine use and QTc interval prolongation, a latent class analysis study. Sci Rep 2024; 14:155. [PMID: 38168538 PMCID: PMC10762262 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50489-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Benzodiazepine (BDZ) addiction is a widespread and multifaceted phenomenon. For many patients, especially females, the concomitant use of other drugs also increases their risk of QTc prolongation, possibly leading to complications such as seizures and even sudden death. However, the relationship between BDZ use and QTc prolongation is currently unclear. The present study aims to examine patterns of polysubstance use among a sample of Italian adults with BDZ dependence in relation with their QTc prolongation risk. We used Latent Class Analysis (LCA) on data collected from 251 inpatients of the Addiction Medicine Unit in Verona to group patients into three classes according to their substance use and their QTc prolongation risk. Results showed no significant relationship between QTc prolongation and BDZ use in any of the classes considered. We conclude that BDZs, even if used long-term and at high dosages, can be considered safe in terms of cardiovascular complications for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Zamboni
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, G.B. Rossi Hospital, Verona, Italy.
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Igor Portoghese
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cagliari , Italy
| | - Rebecca Casari
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, G.B. Rossi Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Fusina
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Laura Santin
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, G.B. Rossi Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Luigi Isaia Lecca
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cagliari , Italy
| | - Simone Campagnari
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, G.B. Rossi Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Silvia Carli
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, G.B. Rossi Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Thomas Zandonai
- Department of Pharmacology, Paediatrics and Organic Chemistry, Miguel Hernández University of Elche, Elche, Spain
- Addiction Science Lab at the Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science , University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Fabio Lugoboni
- Unit of Addiction Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, G.B. Rossi Hospital, Verona, Italy
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Ashkanani FZ, Rathbone AP, Lindsey L. The role of pharmacists in deprescribing benzodiazepines: A scoping review. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 12:100328. [PMID: 37743854 PMCID: PMC10511800 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Polypharmacy can increase the risk of adverse drug events, hospitalisation, and unnecessary healthcare costs. Evidence indicates that discontinuing certain medications, such as benzodiazepines, can improve health outcomes, by resolving adverse drug effects. This scoping review aims to explore the pharmacists' role in deprescribing benzodiazepines. Method A scoping review has been conducted to distinguish and map the literature, discover research gaps, and focus on targeted areas for future studies and research. A systematic search strategy was conducted to identify relevant studies from PubMed, Medline, and EMBASE databases. The eligibility criteria involved studies that focused on the role of pharmacists in benzodiazepine deprescribing, quantitative and qualitative studies conducted in humans, full-text articles published in English. Results Twenty studies were identified, revealing three themes: 1) pharmacists' involvement in benzodiazepine deprescribing, 2) the impact of their involvement, and 3) obstacles impeding the process. Pharmacists involved in deprescribing procedures, mainly through completing medication reviews, collaborative work with other healthcare providers, and education. Pharmacists' involvement in benzodiazepine deprescribing intervention led to better health and economic outcomes. Withdrawal symptoms after medication discontinuation, dependence on medication, and lack of time and guidelines were identified in the literature as barriers to deprescribing. Conclusion Pharmacists' involvement in deprescribing benzodiazepines is crucial for optimizing medication therapy. This scoping review examines the pharmacists' role in benzodiazepine deprescribing. The findings contribute to enhancing healthcare outcomes and guiding future research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemah Zakariya Ashkanani
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE2 7RU, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Pattison Rathbone
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE2 7RU, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Lindsey
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE2 7RU, United Kingdom
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Liu D, Zhang Q, Zhao Z, Chen M, Hou Y, Wang G, Shen H, Zhu H, Ji Y, Ruan L, Lou Z. Benzodiazepine-Receptor Agonist Utilization in Outpatients with Anxiety Disorder: A Retrospective Study Based on Electronic Healthcare Data from a Large General Tertiary Hospital. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11040554. [PMID: 36833088 PMCID: PMC9956167 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11040554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Benzodiazepine-receptor agonists (BZRAs), including benzodiazepines (BZDs) and drugs related to BZDs (Z-drugs), are commonly used for anxiety, but often have side effects. We retrospectively investigated the utilization and prescription characteristics of BZRAs for patients with anxiety disorders in a large tertiary care general hospital between 2018 and 2021, based on electronic healthcare records. We also examined the pattern of simultaneous consumption of multiple BZRA drugs, and the diseases coexisting with anxiety that are associated with this. The numbers of patients and BZRA prescriptions increased over the 4 years. Moreover, 7195 prescriptions from 694 patients contained two or more BZRAs, of which 78.08% contained both BZDs and Z-drugs, 19.78% contained multiple BZDs, and 2.14% contained multiple Z-drugs. For anxiety patients with concomitant Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease, and dyslipidemia, they were more likely to consume multiple BZRAs simultaneously, whereas patients with concomitant insomnia, depression, hypertension, diabetes, or tumors were less likely to consume multiple BZRAs (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, older patients who consume multiple BZRAs simultaneously may have higher probabilities of long-term drug use. Better interventions supporting standardized BZD utilization may be needed to minimize the side effects of inappropriate BZRA administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denong Liu
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Zhejiang Regional Medical Center Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo Hospital of Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Qingyu Zhang
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Zhejiang Regional Medical Center Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo Hospital of Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Zhijia Zhao
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Mengjia Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Ningbo Yinzhou No.2 Hospital, Ningbo 315199, China
| | - Yanbin Hou
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Zhejiang Regional Medical Center Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo Hospital of Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Guanjun Wang
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Zhejiang Regional Medical Center Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo Hospital of Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Haowei Shen
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Huaqiang Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Zhejiang Pharmaceutical University, Ningbo 315199, China
| | - Yunxin Ji
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Zhejiang Regional Medical Center Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo Hospital of Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315010, China
| | - Liemin Ruan
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Zhejiang Regional Medical Center Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo Hospital of Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315010, China
- Correspondence: (L.R.); (Z.L.)
| | - Zhongze Lou
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Zhejiang Regional Medical Center Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo Hospital of Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315010, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases, Central Laboratory of the Medical Research Center, Zhejiang Regional Medical Center Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo Hospital of Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315010, China
- Correspondence: (L.R.); (Z.L.)
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Barry A, Lewin S, Cadogan CA. Applying the intervention Complexity Assessment Tool to brief interventions targeting long-term benzodiazepine receptor agonist use in primary care: Lessons learned. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:175. [PMID: 35842593 PMCID: PMC9288038 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01775-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Benzodiazepine receptor agonists (BZRAs) are often prescribed for long-term use. However, guidelines recommend limiting prescriptions to short-term use (< 4 weeks) to reduce the risk of adverse effects and dependence. A recent systematic review reported that brief interventions targeting long-term BZRA use in primary care (e.g., short consultations, written letters to patients) were effective in helping patients to discontinue BZRA medication. However, the complexity of these interventions has not been examined in detail. This study aimed to apply the intervention Complexity Assessment Tool for Systematic Reviews (iCAT_SR) to brief interventions targeting long-term BZRA use. Methods Two reviewers independently assessed the interventions using the six core iCAT_SR dimensions: organisational level/ category targeted, behaviour targeted, number of intervention components, degree of tailoring, skill level required by those delivering and receiving the intervention. The four optional iCAT_SR dimensions were applied where possible. A scoring system was using to calculate a complexity score for each intervention. Pearson’s correlations were used to assess the relationship between intervention complexity and effect size, as well as the relationship between intervention complexity and number of component behaviour change techniques (BCTs). Inter-rater reliability was calculated using Cohen’s Kappa coefficient. Results Four of the six core iCAT_SR dimensions were applied to the interventions with high inter-rater reliability (Cohen’s Kappa = 0.916). Application of the four optional dimensions was prevented by a lack of detail in study reports. Intervention complexity scores ranged from 8 to 11 (median: 11). There was no relationship detected between intervention complexity and either intervention effect size or number of component BCTs. Conclusions This study adds to the literature on worked examples of the practical application of the iCAT_SR. The findings highlight how more detailed reporting of interventions is needed in order to optimise the application of iCAT_SR and its potential to differentiate between interventions across the full range of complexity dimensions. Further work is needed to establish the validity of applying a scoring system to iCAT_SR assessments. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12875-022-01775-y.
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Gozda K, Leung J, Baum L, Singer A, Konrad G, McMillan DE, Falk J, Kosowan L, Leong C. Insights into patient characteristics and documentation of the use of sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytics in primary care: a retrospective chart review study. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:111. [PMID: 35538427 PMCID: PMC9087974 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01724-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Despite the known safety risks of long-term use of sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytic medications, there has been limited guidance for the safe and effective use of their chronic use in a primary care clinic setting. Understanding the characteristics of patients who receive sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytic medication and the clinical documentation process in primary care is the first step towards understanding the nature of the problem and will help inform future strategies for clinical research and practice.
Objectives
Characterize patients who received a sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytic prescription in primary care, and (2) gain an understanding of the clinical documentation of sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytic indication and monitoring in electronic medical records (EMR).
Methods
A random selection of patients who received a prescription for a benzodiazepine or Z-drug hypnotic between January 2014 and August 2016 from four primary care clinics in Winnipeg were included. Data was collected retrospectively using the EMR (Accuro®). Patient variables recorded included sex, age, comorbidities, medications, smoking status, and alcohol status. Treatment variables included drug type, indication, pattern of use, dose, adverse events, psychosocial intervention, tapering attempts, social support, life stressor, and monitoring parameters for sedative-hypnotic use. Demographic and clinical characteristics were described using descriptive statistics.
Results
Records from a sample of 200 primary care patients prescribed sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytics were analyzed (mean age 55.8 years old, 61.5% ≥ 65 years old, 61.0% female). Long-term chronic use (≥ 1 year) of a sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytic agent was observed in 29.5% of the sample. Zopiclone (30.7%) and lorazepam (28.7%) were the most common agents prescribed. Only 9.5% of patients had documentation of a past tapering attempt of their sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytic. The most common indications for sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytic use recorded were anxiety (33.0%) and sleep (18.0%), but indication was undetermined for 57.0% of patients. Depression (33.5%) and falls (18.5%) were reported by patients after the initiation of these agents.
Conclusions
A higher proportion of females and users 65 years and older received a prescription for a sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytic, consistent with previous studies on sedative-hypnotic use. We found inconsistencies in the documentation surrounding sedative-hypnotic/anxiolytic use. The indication for their use was unclear in a large number of patients. These findings will help us understand the state of the problem in primary care and inform future strategies for clinical research.
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Bang YR, Jeon HJ, Yoon IY. Effect of Long-Term Benzodiazepines for Chronic Insomnia on Cognitive Function and Waking Electroencephalography: A Case-Control Study. Psychiatry Investig 2022; 19:259-267. [PMID: 35500899 PMCID: PMC9058265 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2021.0316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The relationship between benzodiazepine use and cognitive decline in insomnia patients has been reported, but still conflicting. Thus, we tried to determine whether long-term exposure of benzodiazepine might be associated with changes of cognition and electroencephalography (EEG) findings in patients with chronic insomnia. METHODS Insomniacs using benzodiazepines (n=29), drug-free insomniacs (n=27), and age- and sex-matched controls (n=28) were recruited. Neurocognitive function tested with Korean version of the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Packet Neuropsychological Assessment Battery, quantitative EEG in awake state, and information of benzodiazepine usage were obtained. RESULTS Drug-free insomniacs reported more severe symptoms than insomniacs using benzodiazepine (p<0.001). Insomniacs using benzodiazepine showed a decrease of executive function in Trail Making Test A than drug-free insomniacs and controls (0.73±0.66 vs. 1.27±0.38 vs. 1.09±0.47, p<0.001) and in categorical fluency than drug-free insomniacs (-0.01±0.99 vs. 1.26±0.97, p=0.002). However, such decrease of executive function was not proportional to daily dose or cumulative dose of benzodiazepine. The EEG was not significantly different between insomniacs using benzodiazepine and drug-free insomniacs, while EEG of insomniacs showed low relative theta power in frontal and parietal regions but high relative beta power in frontal region than that of controls. CONCLUSION Benzodiazepine users with chronic insomnia showed an impairment of executive function compared to drug-free insomniacs and controls although they showed relatively decreased severity of insomnia symptoms. Chronic insomniacs showed a hyper-arousal manifestation in front-parietal region of brain regardless of benzodiazepine exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Rong Bang
- Department of Psychiatry, Ulsan University Hospital, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Jun Jeon
- Department of Psychiatry, Konkuk University Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Young Yoon
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Part I: Interactive case: Rational deprescribing of benzodiazepine receptor agonists for insomnia. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF CLINICAL PHARMACY 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/jac5.1612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for the Discontinuation of Long-Term Benzodiazepine Use in Insomnia and Anxiety Disorders. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph181910222. [PMID: 34639523 PMCID: PMC8508349 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Benzodiazepines have proven to be highly effective for treating insomnia and anxiety. Although considered safe when taken for a short period of time, a major risk–benefit dilemma arises in the context of long-term use, relating to addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and potential side effects. For these reasons, benzodiazepines are not recommended for treating chronic sleep disorders, anxiety disorders, nor for people over the age of 65, and withdrawal among long-term users is a public health issue. Indeed, only 5% of patients manage to discontinue using these drugs on their own. Even with the help of a general practitioner, this rate does not exceed 25 to 30% of patients, of which approximately 7% manage to remain drug-free in the long term. Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBT) offer a crucial solution to this problem, having been shown to increase abstinence success to 70–80%. This article examines traditional and novel CBT techniques in this regard, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which address both the underlying condition (insomnia/anxiety) and the substance-related disorder. The theoretical framework and evidence supporting the use of these approaches are reviewed. Finally, current research gaps are discussed, and key research perspectives are proposed.
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Landolt S, Rosemann T, Blozik E, Brüngger B, Huber CA. Benzodiazepine and Z-Drug Use in Switzerland: Prevalence, Prescription Patterns and Association with Adverse Healthcare Outcomes. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2021; 17:1021-1034. [PMID: 33880026 PMCID: PMC8052118 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s290104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to give a nationwide comprehensive picture of the prevalence and prescription patterns of benzodiazepines (BZ) and Z-drugs (ZD) in Switzerland and to analyze the association with adverse health care outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS A population-based, cross-sectional study was conducted, using a large health insurance database in Switzerland. Records from all adult patients with ≥1 prescription for a benzodiazepine and/or a Z-drug in 2018 were included. We calculated the prevalence of BZ and ZD user (extrapolated to the Swiss general population), the number of prescriptions and the type of provider (among each BZ and ZD only user). Multivariate logistic regression models were performed to estimate the association between drug prescription and the risk of hospitalization in different healthcare settings. RESULTS Of a total of 844'692 patients, 95'179 had ≥1 BZ and/or ZD prescription in 2018. The extrapolated one-year prevalence for the general Swiss population was 8.1% for a BZ prescription, 3.5% for a ZD prescription, and 10.5% for a BZ and/or ZD prescription, and continuously increased with age. The majority of the elderly (over 65 years) had ≥1 prescription (BZ: 51.9%; ZD: 56.9%; BZ and/or ZD: 53.5). The proportion of patients with ≥6 prescriptions per year was 23.1% for BZ only user and 35.2% for ZD only user. Most patients had ≥1 prescription from a general practitioner. Regression models showed a higher likelihood to be admitted to acute care, psychiatry, rehabilitation, or nursing home with ≥1 prescription for a benzodiazepine and/or a Z-drug. CONCLUSION This study is the first to give a nationwide overview of the current use of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs in Switzerland based on health insurance claims data. The results revealed a remarkably high prevalence among the general Swiss population, especially in older generations. The negative consequences of heavy BZ and ZD use are a crucial public health problem, that should be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salome Landolt
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zürich, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zürich, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Eva Blozik
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zürich, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.,Department of Health Sciences, Helsana Insurance Group, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Brüngger
- Department of Health Sciences, Helsana Insurance Group, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Carola A Huber
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zürich, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.,Department of Health Sciences, Helsana Insurance Group, Zürich, Switzerland
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Kawamata Y, Sugawara N, Ishioka M, Kubo K, Suzuki K, Fujii A, Furukori H, Nakagami T, Yasui-Furukori N, Shimoda K. Different Attitudes of Patients and Psychiatrists Toward Benzodiazepine Treatment. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2021; 17:1927-1936. [PMID: 34163166 PMCID: PMC8214561 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s314440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concern regarding the benefit/risk ratio of the long-term use of benzodiazepines (BDZs) and Z-drugs is increasing. To prevent the risk of dependence in BDZ long-term use, it is essential to understand the attitudes of patients and psychiatrists toward BDZ treatment. The aims of this investigation were to 1) obtain information on patients' attitudes with long-term BDZ use and their referring psychiatrists' attitudes toward BDZ treatment, including their perception of the difficulty of reducing the dose of BDZs, and 2) identify discrepancies between patients' and psychiatrists' perceptions. METHODS A brief questionnaire was constructed to investigate the attitudes of patients receiving BDZ treatment and their referring psychiatrists. Our sample comprised 155 patients who received BDZ treatment for more than one year and their referring eight psychiatrists. Both the patients and their psychiatrists completed our questionnaire between August 2017 and December 2017. RESULTS Of the patients, 13% felt that it was more difficult to reduce the dose of BDZs than their referring psychiatrists (type A discrepancy), while 25% felt that it was less difficult (type B discrepancy). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the female sex and both the patients' ("psychotherapy plus BDZs was necessary" and "it was necessary to increase the dose of BDZs") and psychiatrists' beliefs ("short-term prescription was justified") were associated with type A discrepancies. Type B discrepancies were associated with psychiatrists' beliefs that the patient's wishes justified the use of BDZs and that the cessation of treatment with BDZs would lead to the deterioration of their rapport with their patients. CONCLUSION To overcome the discrepancies in the attitudes of patients and psychiatrists toward the cessation of BDZ treatment, it is necessary to promote patient-centered care involving patient psychoeducation and practice guidelines for the decision-making process. Further studies investigating the promotion of patient-centered care to reduce BDZ use are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Kawamata
- Department of Psychiatry, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Mibu, Japan
| | - Norio Sugawara
- Department of Psychiatry, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Mibu, Japan.,Department of Neuropsychiatry, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Japan
| | | | - Kazutoshi Kubo
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Hirosaki-Aiseikai Hospital, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Katsuji Suzuki
- Department of Psychiatry, Aomori Central Hospital, Aomori, Japan
| | - Akira Fujii
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Mutsu General Hospital, Mutsu, Japan
| | - Hanako Furukori
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kuroishi-Akebono Hospital, Kuroishi, Japan
| | - Taku Nakagami
- Department of Psychiatry, Nakagami Mental Clinic, Ohdate, Japan
| | - Norio Yasui-Furukori
- Department of Psychiatry, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Mibu, Japan.,Department of Neuropsychiatry, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Kazutaka Shimoda
- Department of Psychiatry, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, Mibu, Japan
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Are Seniors Dependent on Benzodiazepines? A National Clinical Survey of Substance Use Disorder. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2020; 109:528-535. [DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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12
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Chen YT, Liu CY, Chang CM, Lai YM, Wang BH, Yang TY, Hsu SC. Perceptions, clinical characteristics, and other factors associated with prolonged and high daily dose of benzodiazepine use among patients with anxiety or depressive disorders. J Affect Disord 2020; 271:215-223. [PMID: 32479319 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.03.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Benzodiazepines (BZDs) have been widely used to treat anxiety; however, the risk of adverse health effects caused by their long-term use is high. This study examined the factors associated with the duration and higher daily dose of BZDs use among a population with anxiety or depressive disorders. METHODS A cross-sectional study design was used. Patients from a psychiatric outpatient department who had been prescribed BZDs were recruited. Data were collected from 250 patients. RESULTS Nearly 94% of patients were long-term BZDs users. The mean duration of BZDs use was 5.5 years; and mean defined daily dose (DDD) of BZDs use, converted to diazepam milligram equivalent (DDD), was 1.53 DME-DDD. Patients who knew more about alternative treatments were less prone to use BZD longer. Patients aged 65 years or older and those with difficulty falling asleep were more prone to use BZDs longer. Patients who were currently taking BZDs at higher daily dose were those who felt more depressed, prescribed second generation antipsychotics, suffered from disrupted sleep, less aware of alternative treatments, had comorbid chronic physical illness, and were current smokers. LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional study design limited its ability to confirm causal relationships. CONCLUSIONS Long-term and excessive daily dose of BZDs use in patients with depressive or anxiety disorders needs to be noted. Providing information or program of non-pharmacological treatment in reducing anxiety and improving specific sleep disturbance is suggested. Elderly, suffering from depressive mood, had comorbid chronic physical illness need to be targeted for further intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ting Chen
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Address:No.259, Wenhua 1st Rd., Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City 33302, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan.
| | - Chia-Yih Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Address: No.5, Fuxing St., Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan; School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - Chia-Ming Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Address: No.5, Fuxing St., Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Ming Lai
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Address:No.259, Wenhua 1st Rd., Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City 33302, Taiwan.
| | - Bi-Hwa Wang
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Address:No.259, Wenhua 1st Rd., Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City 33302, Taiwan.
| | - Tsui-Yun Yang
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Address:No.259, Wenhua 1st Rd., Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City 33302, Taiwan; Department of Hematology and Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - Shih-Chieh Hsu
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Address: No.5, Fuxing St., Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan (l)Department of Psychiatry, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan.
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Hu YH, Chen K, Chang IC, Shen CC. Critical Predictors for the Early Detection of Conversion From Unipolar Major Depressive Disorder to Bipolar Disorder: Nationwide Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study. JMIR Med Inform 2020; 8:e14278. [PMID: 32242821 PMCID: PMC7165312 DOI: 10.2196/14278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unipolar major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder are two major mood disorders. The two disorders have different treatment strategies and prognoses. However, bipolar disorder may begin with depression and could be diagnosed as MDD in the initial stage, which may later contribute to treatment failure. Previous studies indicated that a high proportion of patients diagnosed with MDD will develop bipolar disorder over time. This kind of hidden bipolar disorder may contribute to the treatment resistance observed in patients with MDD. OBJECTIVE In this population-based study, our aim was to investigate the rate and risk factors of a diagnostic change from unipolar MDD to bipolar disorder during a 10-year follow-up. Furthermore, a risk stratification model was developed for MDD-to-bipolar disorder conversion. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving patients who were newly diagnosed with MDD between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2004, by using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. All patients with depression were observed until (1) diagnosis of bipolar disorder by a psychiatrist, (2) death, or (3) December 31, 2013. All patients with depression were divided into the following two groups, according to whether bipolar disorder was diagnosed during the follow-up period: converted group and nonconverted group. Six groups of variables within the first 6 months of enrollment, including personal characteristics, physical comorbidities, psychiatric comorbidities, health care usage behaviors, disorder severity, and psychotropic use, were extracted and were included in a classification and regression tree (CART) analysis to generate a risk stratification model for MDD-to-bipolar disorder conversion. RESULTS Our study enrolled 2820 patients with MDD. During the follow-up period, 536 patients were diagnosed with bipolar disorder (conversion rate=19.0%). The CART method identified five variables (kinds of antipsychotics used within the first 6 months of enrollment, kinds of antidepressants used within the first 6 months of enrollment, total psychiatric outpatient visits, kinds of benzodiazepines used within one visit, and use of mood stabilizers) as significant predictors of the risk of bipolar disorder conversion. This risk CART was able to stratify patients into high-, medium-, and low-risk groups with regard to bipolar disorder conversion. In the high-risk group, 61.5%-100% of patients with depression eventually developed bipolar disorder. On the other hand, in the low-risk group, only 6.4%-14.3% of patients with depression developed bipolar disorder. CONCLUSIONS The CART method identified five variables as significant predictors of bipolar disorder conversion. In a simple two- to four-step process, these variables permit the identification of patients with low, intermediate, or high risk of bipolar disorder conversion. The developed model can be applied to routine clinical practice for the early diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Han Hu
- Center for Innovative Research on Aging Society, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi County, Taiwan.,MOST AI Biomedical Research Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan.,Department of Information Management, National Central University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Kuanchin Chen
- Department of Business Information Systems, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - I-Chiu Chang
- Department of Information Management and Institute of Healthcare Information Management, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi County, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Che Shen
- Department of Information Management and Institute of Healthcare Information Management, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi County, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry, Chiayi Branch, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Chiayi City, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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14
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Ostroumov A, Wittenberg RE, Kimmey BA, Taormina MB, Holden WM, McHugh AT, Dani JA. Acute Nicotine Exposure Alters Ventral Tegmental Area Inhibitory Transmission and Promotes Diazepam Consumption. eNeuro 2020; 7:ENEURO.0348-19.2020. [PMID: 32102779 PMCID: PMC7082131 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0348-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nicotine use increases the risk for subsequent abuse of other addictive drugs, but the biological basis underlying this risk remains largely unknown. Interactions between nicotine and other drugs of abuse may arise from nicotine-induced neural adaptations in the mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system, a common pathway for the reinforcing effects of many addictive substances. Previous work identified nicotine-induced neuroadaptations that alter inhibitory transmission in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Here, we test whether nicotine-induced dysregulation of GABAergic signaling within the VTA increases the vulnerability for benzodiazepine abuse that has been reported in smokers. We demonstrate in rats that nicotine exposure dysregulates diazepam-induced inhibition of VTA GABA neurons and increases diazepam consumption. In VTA GABA neurons, nicotine impaired KCC2-mediated chloride extrusion, depolarized the GABAA reversal potential, and shifted the pharmacological effect of diazepam on GABA neurons from inhibition toward excitation. In parallel, nicotine-related alterations in GABA signaling observed ex vivo were associated with enhanced diazepam-induced inhibition of lateral VTA DA neurons in vivo Targeting KCC2 with the agonist CLP290 normalized diazepam-induced effects on VTA GABA transmission and reduced diazepam consumption following nicotine administration to the control level. Together, our results provide insights into midbrain circuit alterations resulting from nicotine exposure that contribute to the abuse of other drugs, such as benzodiazepines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Ostroumov
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Ruthie E Wittenberg
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Blake A Kimmey
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Madison B Taormina
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - William M Holden
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Albert T McHugh
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - John A Dani
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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15
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Jung ME, Metzger DB, Hall J. The long-term but not short-term use of benzodiazepine impairs motoric function and upregulates amyloid β in part through the suppression of translocator protein. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2020; 191:172873. [PMID: 32105662 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2020.172873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Many elderly American women use CNS depressant benzodiazepine (BZD) to ameliorate anxiety or insomnia. However, the chronic use of BZD (cBZD) is prevalent, causing adverse effects of BZD that include movement deficit. We previously reported that cBZD upregulates neurotoxic amyloid β42 (Aβ42) and downregulates neuroprotective translocator protein (TSPO) in the cerebellum, the brain area of movement and balance. The aim of the current study is two-fold: 1) to determine a direct effect of TSPO (inhibition) on cBZD-induced Aβ42 and Aβ-associated molecules; Aβ-producing-protein presenilin-1 (PS1) and Aβ-degrading-enzyme neprilysin and 2) to determine whether Aβ42 upregulation and motoric deficit occur upon a long-term (cBZD) rather than a short-term BZD (sBZD) treatment. Old female mice received BZD (lorazepam) for 20 days (cBZD) or 3 days (sBZD) with or without prototype TSPO ligand PK11195 and were tested for motoric performance for 3 days using Rotarod. ELISA was conducted to measure Aβ42 level and neprilysin activity in cerebellum. RT-PCR and immunoblot were conducted to measure the mRNA and protein levels of TSPO, PS1, and neprilysin. cBZD treatment decreased TSPO and neprilysin but increased Aβ42 accompanied by motoric deficit. Chronic PK11195 treatment acted as a TSPO inhibitor by suppressing TSPO expression and mimicked or exacerbated the effects of cBZD on all parameters measured except for PS1. None of the molecular and behavioral changes induced by cBZD were reproduced by sBZD treatment. These data suggest that cBZD upregulates Aβ42 and downregulates neprilysin in part through TSPO inhibition, the mechanisms distinct from sBZD, collectively contributing to motoric deficit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna E Jung
- Pharmacology and Neuroscience, UNT Health Science Center, Institute for Healthy Aging, 3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States of America.
| | - Daniel B Metzger
- Pharmacology and Neuroscience, UNT Health Science Center, Institute for Healthy Aging, 3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States of America
| | - James Hall
- Pharmacology and Neuroscience, UNT Health Science Center, Institute for Healthy Aging, 3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States of America
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16
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Enomoto M, Kitamura S, Tachimori H, Takeshima M, Mishima K. Long-term use of hypnotics: Analysis of trends and risk factors. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2020; 62:49-55. [PMID: 31786448 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2019.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with chronic insomnia are prone to long-term use of hypnotics. Reported risk factors include aging, female sex, and comorbid psychiatric disorders. However, most previous studies have been cross-sectional cohort studies. METHOD We conducted a retrospective cohort study using medical service payment data for 330,000 people to determine the duration of prescription of hypnotics and the risk factors for long-term use. We followed up 3981 patients (2382 M, 1599 F, age 40.3 ± 12.4 years) who were prescribed hypnotics for the first time between April 2005 and March 2008. RESULTS Of these 3981 patients, 59.6% were prescribed hypnotics for only 1 month, 11.3% were prescribed hypnotics for 2 consecutive months, and 10.1% of patients continued receiving prescriptions for the entire 12-month observation period. In multiple logistic time-dependent Cox analyses, use of antidepressants, mean dose of hypnotics, and advanced age were significantly associated with long-term use of hypnotics (p < 0.01). In an analysis of the association between long-term use of hypnotics and prescribed dosage, high monthly dose, advanced age, and department of first visit were significantly associated with long-term use (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION These clinical indicators may be effective for early identification of patients with insomnia who are at high risk of developing physical dependence on hypnotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minori Enomoto
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Health Sciences, Tokyo University of Technology, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Sleep-Wake Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Shingo Kitamura
- Department of Sleep-Wake Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Hisateru Tachimori
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Translational Medical Center, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Masahiro Takeshima
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan.
| | - Kazuo Mishima
- Department of Sleep-Wake Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Neuropsychiatry, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan; International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine, Tsukuba, Japan.
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17
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Campanha AM, Ravagnani B, Milhorança IA, Bernik MA, Viana MC, Wang YP, Andrade LH. Benzodiazepine use in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2020; 75:e1610. [PMID: 32667494 PMCID: PMC7337218 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2020/e1610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To report the prevalence and factors associated with the use of benzodiazepines in the general population and those with a mental health condition in the metropolitan area of São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS 5,037 individuals from the Sao Paulo Megacity Mental Health Survey data were interviewed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, designed to generate DSM-IV diagnoses. Additionally, participants were asked if they had taken any medication in the previous 12 months for the treatment of any mental health condition. RESULTS The prevalence of benzodiazepine use ranged from 3.6% in the general population to 7.8% among subjects with a mental health condition. Benzodiazepine use was more prevalent in subjects that had been diagnosed with a mood disorder as opposed to an anxiety disorder (14.7% vs. 8.1%, respectively). Subjects that had been diagnosed with a panic disorder (33.7%) or bipolar I/II (23.3%) reported the highest use. Individuals aged ≥50 years (11.1%), those with two or more disorders (11.2%), those with moderate or severe disorders (10%), and those that used psychiatric services (29.8%) also reported higher use. CONCLUSION These findings give an overview of the use of benzodiazepines in the general population, which will be useful in the public health domain. Benzodiazepine use was higher in those with a mental health condition, with people that had a mood disorder being the most vulnerable. Furthermore, females and the elderly had high benzodiazepine use, so careful management in these groups is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Maria Campanha
- Nucleo de Epidemiologia Psiquiatrica (LIM-23), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
- Departamento de Farmacia, Universidade Estadual de Maringa, Maringa, PR, BR
- *Corresponding author. E-mail:
| | - Beatriz Ravagnani
- Nucleo de Epidemiologia Psiquiatrica (LIM-23), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Igor André Milhorança
- Nucleo de Epidemiologia Psiquiatrica (LIM-23), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
- Instituto de Matematica e Estatistica, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Márcio Antonini Bernik
- Programa de Ansiedade, Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Maria Carmen Viana
- Departamento de Medicina Social, Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Saude Coletiva, Centro de Estudos e Pesquisa em Epidemiologia Psiquiatrica (CEPEP), Universidade Federal do Espirito Santo, Vitoria, ES, BR
| | - Yuan-Pang Wang
- Nucleo de Epidemiologia Psiquiatrica (LIM-23), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Laura Helena Andrade
- Nucleo de Epidemiologia Psiquiatrica (LIM-23), Departamento e Instituto de Psiquiatria, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
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18
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Bushnell GA, Crystal S, Olfson M. Prescription Benzodiazepine Use in Privately Insured U.S. Children and Adolescents. Am J Prev Med 2019; 57:775-785. [PMID: 31753258 PMCID: PMC6935869 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2019.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed in the U.S. but entail safety concerns, including dependency. In pediatrics, many indications lack trial data. Authors aimed to describe youth initiating prescription benzodiazepine treatment, identify potential indications and prescribing concerns, estimate the duration of treatment by potential indication, and identify factors that predict long-term use. METHODS The study cohort included children (aged 3-12 years) and adolescents (aged 13-17 years) initiating prescription benzodiazepine treatment (≥3 days' supply) from January 2010 to September 2015 in a U.S. commercial claims database. Potential indications included selected ICD-9-CM diagnoses (≤30 days prior). Long-term (≥6 months) benzodiazepine treatment was estimated with Kaplan-Meier estimation and modified Poisson regression identified independent predictors of long-term benzodiazepine treatment (analysis completed in 2018). RESULTS Of 24,504 children and 61,046 adolescents initiating benzodiazepines, 62% of the children and 68% of the adolescents had a potential indication. Anxiety disorders were the most common indication, with mental health indications more common among adolescents (45%) than children (23%) and epilepsy and movement disorders higher in children. Recent opioid prescriptions were common before benzodiazepine initiation (children, 22%; adolescents, 21%). Six percent of the initiators became long-term benzodiazepine users. Potential indication, provider contact, psychotropic medication, and chronic conditions independently predicted long-term benzodiazepine treatment in adolescents and children. CONCLUSIONS U.S. children and adolescents are prescribed benzodiazepines for various mental health and other medical conditions, many lacking evidence of pediatric efficacy. Long-term benzodiazepine treatment, concurrent opioid prescriptions, psychotropic use, and prior substance use disorder diagnoses suggest safety risks among some youth prescribed benzodiazepines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta A Bushnell
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York.
| | - Stephen Crystal
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy, and Aging Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Mark Olfson
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
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Menif L, Oueslati B, Maamri A, Melki W, Zalila H. Correlates of benzodiazepine dependence in patients with depression followed up in a psychiatric outpatient unit in Tunisia. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2019; 20:104-116. [DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2019.1589611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Menif
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis el Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Bilel Oueslati
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis el Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Psychiatry Department, Razi Hospital, La Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Amira Maamri
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis el Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Psychiatry Department, Razi Hospital, La Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Wahid Melki
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis el Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Psychiatry Department, Razi Hospital, La Manouba, Tunisia
| | - Haifa Zalila
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis el Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Psychiatry Department, Razi Hospital, La Manouba, Tunisia
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Overdosing of benzodiazepines/Z-drugs and falls in older adults: Costs for the health system. Exp Gerontol 2018; 110:42-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Tanguay Bernard MM, Luc M, Carrier JD, Fournier L, Duhoux A, Côté E, Lessard O, Gibeault C, Bocti C, Roberge P. Patterns of benzodiazepines use in primary care adults with anxiety disorders. Heliyon 2018; 4:e00688. [PMID: 29998202 PMCID: PMC6039319 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2018.e00688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Benzodiazepines are among the most commonly prescribed drugs for anxiety disorders. While they are indicated as adjunctive treatment for short-term use according to clinical practice guidelines, previous studies have shown patterns of long-term use of benzodiazepines, which is problematic due to side effects, dependence and potential of abuse. The aims of this study were to examine among a large sample of primary care adults suffering from anxiety disorders: 1) benzodiazepine use patterns; and 2) correlates of long-term benzodiazepine use. METHODS Data were drawn from the "Dialogue" project, a large primary care study conducted in 64 primary care clinics in the province of Quebec, Canada. Following a mental health screening in waiting rooms, patients at risk of anxiety or depression completed the Composite International Diagnostic Interview-Simplified (CIDIS). A sample of 740 adults meeting DSM-IV criteria for Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder or Social Anxiety Disorder in the past 12 months took part in this study. RESULTS Benzodiazepines were used by 22.6% of participants with anxiety disorders in our primary care sample. A large majority of benzodiazepine users (88.4%) met our indicator of long-term use, as defined by utilization for more than 12 weeks including regular and as-needed use. Based on a logistic regression model, individual correlates associated with long-term benzodiazepine use included: being 30 years or older, having a comorbid physical illness, meeting criteria for comorbid agoraphobia, reporting the use of sleep-aids, and concurrent SSRI utilization. LIMITATION Data collection with self-reported questionnaires may be subject to information bias. CONCLUSIONS Despite knowledge of the risks of long-term use of benzodiazepines, this remains a pervasive problem. Clinicians need to be mindful of patterns and risk factors leading to long-term use of benzodiazepines in patients with anxiety disorders. Results of this study should raise awareness regarding appropriate prescription practices for benzodiazepines, including decision-making in initiation, duration of prescription, and use of strategies for discontinuation in current long-term benzodiazepine users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Michèle Tanguay Bernard
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, University of Sherbrooke, Canada
- Family Medicine Unit of Estrie, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Canada
| | - Mireille Luc
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, University of Sherbrooke, Canada
- Family Medicine Unit of Estrie, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Canada
| | | | - Louise Fournier
- CRCHUM, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Elodie Côté
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, University of Sherbrooke, Canada
- Family Medicine Unit of Estrie, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Canada
| | - Olivier Lessard
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, University of Sherbrooke, Canada
- Family Medicine Unit of Estrie, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Canada
| | - Catherine Gibeault
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, University of Sherbrooke, Canada
- Family Medicine Unit of Estrie, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Canada
| | - Christian Bocti
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, University of Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Pasquale Roberge
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, University of Sherbrooke, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Canada
- CRCHUS Research Center, Canada
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Mokhar A, Tillenburg N, Dirmaier J, Kuhn S, Härter M, Verthein U. Potentially inappropriate use of benzodiazepines and z-drugs in the older population-analysis of associations between long-term use and patient-related factors. PeerJ 2018; 6:e4614. [PMID: 29844949 PMCID: PMC5969046 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.4614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The long-term use of benzodiazepines (BZD) and z-drugs in older populations is associated with a variety of sociodemographic and health-related factors. Recent studies reported that long-term BZD and z-drugs use is associated with increased age, female sex, and severe negative psychological (e.g., depression) and somatic (e.g., chronic disease) factors. The current study explores the sociodemographic and health-related factors associated with long-term BZD and z-drugs use in the elderly. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey among randomly selected patients of one health insurance plan (“AOK North-West”) with BZD and z-drugs prescriptions in the past 12 months. The sample was stratified by appropriate German prescription guidelines (yes vs. no) and age (50–65 vs. >65 years). To examine the association of selected sociodemographic and psychological variables (e.g., sex, employment status, quality of life, depression) with long-term use, a binary logistic regression analysis was conducted. Results In total, data from 340 patients were analyzed. The mean age was 72.1 (SD = 14.5) years, and the most commonly used substances were zopiclon (38.1%), oxazepam (18.1%), and lorazepam (13.8%). The mean defined daily dose (DDD) was 0.73 (SD = 0.47). Insomnia was the main reason for prescribing BZD and z-drugs. The long-term use of BZD and z-drugs was significantly associated with unemployment (OR = 2.9, 95% CI [1.2–7.1]) and generally problematic medication use (OR = 0.5, 95% CI [0.2–1.0]). Discussion Unemployment status and problematic medication use had a significant association with the patient-reported, long-term use of BZD and z-drugs. Divergent prescription patterns might suggest problematic patterns of BZD and z-drugs use. The causal connection between the identified factors and problematic BZD and z-drugs prescription is not discussed in this paper. Nevertheless, employment status and possible evidence of general problematic drug use may be a warning signal to the prescribers of BZD and z-drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliaksandra Mokhar
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Niklas Tillenburg
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jörg Dirmaier
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Silke Kuhn
- Center for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Härter
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Uwe Verthein
- Center for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Fulone I, Silva MT, Lopes LC. Long-term benzodiazepine use in patients taking antidepressants in a public health setting in Brazil: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e018956. [PMID: 29627806 PMCID: PMC5892742 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aims of the study were to investigate the prevalence of long-term use of benzodiazepines in patients taking antidepressants and to identify the risk factors associated with the prolonged use of benzodiazepines. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Public health system in Brazil. PARTICIPANTS Outpatients using antidepressants from January 2008 to December 2009 were included. The data were obtained from pharmacy databases and medical records. All individuals in the database were included in the study and were classified into two categories: (1) patients who had not used benzodiazepines combined with antidepressants or had combined the use of antidepressants with benzodiazepines for a short period (up to 4 weeks), and (2) those who used antidepressants plus benzodiazepines for a longer period (more than 4 weeks). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The outcome measure is prolonged use of benzodiazepines (more than 4 weeks). We conducted a multivariate analysis to identify the factors associated with prolonged use of benzodiazepines. RESULTS Forty per cent of the 870 patients evaluated had prolonged use of benzodiazepines (more than 4 weeks). The risk factors associated with prolonged use were age above 35 years (prevalence ratio (PR): 2.18, 95% CI 1.55 to 3.06, P<0.001), female sex (PR: 1.47, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.02, P=0.019), diagnosis at least 3 years prior (PR: 2.1, 95% CI 1.6 to 2.8, P<0.001), use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants (PR: 1.7, 95% CI 1.3 to 2.2, P<0.001) and having a prescription from a psychiatrist (PR: 6.5, 95% CI 3.2 to 13.2, P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Prolonged use of benzodiazepines occurs more frequently in women, adults diagnosed several years earlier, users of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants and those who received a prescription from a psychiatrist. Education of clinicians, especially with regard to these populations, may decrease the overuse and misuse of benzodiazepines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Fulone
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Master Course, University of Sorocaba, UNISO, Sorocaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcus Tolentino Silva
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Master Course, University of Sorocaba, UNISO, Sorocaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciane Cruz Lopes
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Master Course, University of Sorocaba, UNISO, Sorocaba, São Paulo, Brazil
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Fung CH, Martin JL, Josephson K, Fiorentino L, Dzierzewski JM, Jouldjian S, Song Y, Rodriguez Tapia JC, Mitchell MN, Alessi CA. Cognitive Expectancies for Hypnotic Use among Older Adult Veterans with Chronic Insomnia. Clin Gerontol 2018; 41:130-135. [PMID: 28960164 PMCID: PMC5775935 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2017.1356895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine relationships between cognitive expectancies about sleep and hypnotics and use of medications commonly used for insomnia (hypnotics). METHODS We analyzed baseline data from older veterans who met diagnostic criteria for insomnia and were enrolled in a trial comparing CBTI delivered by a supervised, sleep educator to an attention control condition (N = 159; 97% male, mean age 72 years). We classified individuals as hypnotic users (N = 23) vs. non-users (N = 135) based upon medication diaries. Associations between hypnotic status and Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep-16 (DBAS) total score (0-10, higher = worse) and two DBAS medication item scores (Item 1: "…better off taking a sleeping pill rather than having a poor night's sleep;" Item 2: "Medication… probably the only solution to sleeplessness"; 0-10, higher = worse) were examined in logistic regression models. RESULTS Higher scores on the DBAS medication items (both odds ratios = 1.3; p-values < .001) were significantly associated with hypnotic use. DBAS-16 total score was not associated with hypnotic use. CONCLUSION Cognitive expectancy (dysfunctional beliefs) about hypnotics was associated with hypnotic use in older adults with chronic insomnia disorder. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Strategies that specifically target dysfunctional beliefs about hypnotics are needed and may impact hypnotic use in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance H Fung
- a Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center , VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System , Los Angeles , California , USA.,b David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Jennifer L Martin
- a Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center , VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System , Los Angeles , California , USA.,b David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Karen Josephson
- a Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center , VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Lavinia Fiorentino
- c School of Medicine , University of California , San Diego, San Diego , California , USA
| | - Joseph M Dzierzewski
- a Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center , VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System , Los Angeles , California , USA.,d Department of Psychology , Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA
| | - Stella Jouldjian
- a Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center , VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Yeonsu Song
- b David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | | | - Michael N Mitchell
- a Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center , VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Cathy A Alessi
- a Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center , VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System , Los Angeles , California , USA.,b David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA , Los Angeles , California , USA
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25
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Zhou Y, Yin P, Li B, Li J, Huang N, Wu H, Ullah H, Yang X, Yu X. Effect of Sedative-Hypnotic Medicines on Mortality in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients with Sleep Disorders: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Blood Purif 2018; 45:95-101. [PMID: 29402860 DOI: 10.1159/000484922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sedative-hypnotic medication is widely used among continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients with sleep disorders; however, its effect on mortality has rarely been investigated. METHODS Logistic regression was employed to identify factors associated with sedative-hypnotic medication, whose effect on mortality was evaluated by Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS A total of 146 CAPD patients with sleep disorders were recruited, of which 46 patients (31.5%) used either benzodiazepines or zolpidem. Sedative-hypnotic medication was more frequently used by older patients and those with longer duration of CAPD therapy and there was no significant association between sedative-hypnotic medicines and all-cause mortality after adjusting for age, gender, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and duration of CAPD. CONCLUSION Sedative-hypnotic medication was more often used by older patients and patients with a longer duration of CAPD. There was no association between these agents and all-cause mortality in CAPD patients with sleep disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Ministry of Health and Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Peiran Yin
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Ministry of Health and Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Ministry of Health and Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China.,Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianying Li
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Ministry of Health and Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Naya Huang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Ministry of Health and Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haishan Wu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Ministry of Health and Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Habib Ullah
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Ministry of Health and Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Ministry of Health and Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueqing Yu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Nephrology, Ministry of Health and Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
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26
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Sang E, Liao YM, Miao NF, Chou KR, Chung MH. Patterns and correlates of benzodiazepine use in nurses: A nationwide, population-based study. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2018; 27:400-407. [PMID: 28374978 DOI: 10.1111/inm.12334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we examined patterns of benzodiazepine (BZD) use in nurses, and compared the characteristics of frequent users with those of infrequent users. Data on all nurses enrolled in the study were derived from the reimbursement claim records in Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database for the period 2004-2008. The case group comprised 33 588 nurses with BZD use, and the control group was exactly matched to each case according to age and sex. The patterns of occasional, frequent, and daily BZD use demonstrated an increasing trend from 2004 to 2008. This trend was observed for most of the BZD with a short or intermediate half-life. Older nurses (>45 years) and those with greater experience (≥5 years) were more likely to use BZD frequently. Moreover, the risk of frequent BZD use increased significantly when nurses exhibited comorbid depression (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.58), anxiety (aOR: 1.78), or sleep disorders (aOR: 2.29) compared with infrequent BZD use. The results indicated that nurses with BZD use had comorbidities of anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. The increasing trend of patterns of BZD use and its association with sleep disorders, depression, and anxiety can be used as references for stress and sleep management in nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Sang
- School of Nursing, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yuan-Mei Liao
- School of Nursing, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Nae-Fang Miao
- School of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuei-Ru Chou
- School of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Psychiatric Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Nursing, Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Min-Huey Chung
- School of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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27
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Caniff K, Telega E, Bostwick JR, Gardner KN. Pregabalin as adjunctive therapy in benzodiazepine discontinuation. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2018; 75:67-71. [DOI: 10.2146/ajhp160712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kaylee Caniff
- University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Emily Telega
- University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Jolene R. Bostwick
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Mchigan College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Kristen N. Gardner
- Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Highline Behavioral Health Clinic, Denver, CO
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28
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Fixsen AM, Ridge D. Stories of Hell and Healing: Internet Users' Construction of Benzodiazepine Distress and Withdrawal. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2017; 27:2030-2041. [PMID: 28891380 DOI: 10.1177/1049732317728053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Benzodiazepines are a group of drugs used mainly as sedatives, hypnotics, antiepileptics, and muscle relaxants. Consumption is recommended for 2 to 4 weeks only, due to fast onset of dependency and potentially distressing withdrawal symptoms. Few peer-review studies have drawn on the user experiences and language to appreciate firsthand experiences of benzodiazepine withdrawal or discontinuation syndrome. We looked extensively at patient stories of benzodiazepine withdrawal and recovery on Internet support sites and YouTube. Our analysis indicated that users employ rich metaphors to portray the psychologically disturbing and protracted nature of their suffering. We identified seven major themes: hell and isolation, anxiety and depression, alienation, physical distress, anger and remorse, waves and windows, and healing and renewal. By posting success stories, ex-users make known that "healing" can be a long, unpredictable process, but distress does lessen, and recovery can happen.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Damien Ridge
- 1 University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
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29
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Bushnell GA, Stürmer T, Gaynes BN, Pate V, Miller M. Simultaneous Antidepressant and Benzodiazepine New Use and Subsequent Long-term Benzodiazepine Use in Adults With Depression, United States, 2001-2014. JAMA Psychiatry 2017; 74:747-755. [PMID: 28593281 PMCID: PMC5710248 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2017.1273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Benzodiazepines have been prescribed for short periods to patients with depression who are beginning antidepressant therapy to improve depressive symptoms more quickly, mitigate concomitant anxiety, and improve antidepressant treatment continuation. However, benzodiazepine therapy is associated with risks, including dependency, which may take only a few weeks to develop. OBJECTIVES To examine trends in simultaneous benzodiazepine and antidepressant new use among adults with depression initiating an antidepressant, assess antidepressant treatment length by simultaneous new use status, estimate subsequent long-term benzodiazepine use in those with simultaneous antidepressant and benzodiazepine new use, and identify determinants of simultaneous new use and long-term benzodiazepine use. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cohort study using a US commercial claims database included commercially insured adults (aged 18-64 years) from January 1, 2001, through December 31, 2014, with a recent depression diagnosis who began antidepressant therapy but had not used antidepressants or benzodiazepines in the prior year. EXPOSURES Simultaneous new use, defined as a new benzodiazepine prescription dispensed on the same day as a new antidepressant prescription. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The proportion of antidepressant initiators with simultaneous new use and continuing antidepressant treatment for 6 months and the proportion of simultaneous new users receiving long-term (6-months) benzodiazepine therapy. RESULTS Of the 765 130 adults (median age, 39 years; interquartile range, 29-49 years; 507 451 women [66.3%]) who initiated antidepressant treatment, 81 020 (10.6%) also initiated benzodiazepine treatment. The mean annual increase in the proportion simultaneously starting use of both agents from 2001 to 2014 was 0.49% (95% CI, 0.47%-0.51%), increasing from 6.1% (95% CI, 5.5%-6.6%) in 2001 to 12.5% (95% CI, 12.3%-12.7%) in 2012 and stabilizing through 2014 (11.3%; 95% CI, 11.1%-11.5%). Similar findings were apparent by age group and physician type. Antidepressant treatment length was similar in simultaneous new users and non-simultaneous new users. Among simultaneous new users, 12.3% (95% CI, 12.0%-12.5%) exhibited long-term benzodiazepine use (64.0% discontinued taking benzodiazepines after the initial fill). Determinants of long-term benzodiazepine use after simultaneous new use were longer initial benzodiazepine days' supply, first prescription for a long-acting benzodiazepine, and recent prescription opioid fills. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE One-tenth of antidepressant initiators with depression simultaneously initiated benzodiazepine therapy. No meaningful difference in antidepressant treatment at 6 months was observed by simultaneous new use status. Because of the risks associated with benzodiazepines, simultaneous new use at antidepressant initiation and the benzodiazepine regimen itself require careful consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta A. Bushnell
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill
| | - Til Stürmer
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill
| | - Bradley N. Gaynes
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill
| | - Virginia Pate
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill
| | - Matthew Miller
- Department of Health Science, Northeastern University Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Boston, Massachusetts
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30
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Lindim C, van Gils J, Cousins IT, Kühne R, Georgieva D, Kutsarova S, Mekenyan O. Model-predicted occurrence of multiple pharmaceuticals in Swedish surface waters and their flushing to the Baltic Sea. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 223:595-604. [PMID: 28153413 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.01.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/21/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
An exposure assessment for multiple pharmaceuticals in Swedish surface waters was made using the STREAM-EU model. Results indicate that Metformin (27 ton/y), Paracetamol (6.9 ton/y) and Ibuprofen (2.33 ton/y) were the drugs with higher amounts reaching the Baltic Sea in 2011. 35 of the studied substances had more than 1 kg/y of predicted flush to the sea. Exposure potential given by the ratio amount of the drug exported to the sea/amount emitted to the environment was higher than 50% for 7 drugs (Piperacillin, Lorazepam, Metformin, Hydroxycarbamide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Furosemide and Cetirizine), implying that a high proportion of them will reach the sea, and below 10% for 27 drugs, implying high catchment attenuation. Exposure potentials were found to be dependent of persistency and hydrophobicity of the drugs. Chemicals with Log D > 2 had exposure potentials <10% regardless of their persistence. Chemicals with Log D < -2 had exposure potentials >35% with higher ratios typically achieved for longer half-lives. For Stockholm urban area, 17 of the 54 pharmaceuticals studied had calculated concentrations higher than 10 ng/L. Model agreement with monitored values had an r2 = 0.62 for predicted concentrations and an r2 = 0.95 for predicted disposed amounts to sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lindim
- ACES - Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, SE 10691, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - J van Gils
- Deltares, PO Box 177, 2600 MH Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - I T Cousins
- ACES - Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, SE 10691, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - R Kühne
- Department of Ecological Chemistry, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - D Georgieva
- Laboratory of Mathematical Chemistry, University "Prof. As. Zlatarov", 8010 Bourgas, Bulgaria.
| | - S Kutsarova
- Laboratory of Mathematical Chemistry, University "Prof. As. Zlatarov", 8010 Bourgas, Bulgaria.
| | - O Mekenyan
- Laboratory of Mathematical Chemistry, University "Prof. As. Zlatarov", 8010 Bourgas, Bulgaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Soyka
- From the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, and Medical Park Chiemseeblick, Bernau - both in Germany; and Privatklinik Meiringen, Meiringen, Switzerland
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32
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Weymann D, Gladstone EJ, Smolina K, Morgan SG. Long-term sedative use among community-dwelling adults: a population-based analysis. CMAJ Open 2017; 5:E52-E60. [PMID: 28401119 PMCID: PMC5378535 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20160056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic use of benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine-like sedatives (z-drugs) presents substantial risks to people of all ages. We sought to assess trends in long-term sedative use among community-dwelling adults in British Columbia. METHODS Using population-based linked administrative databases, we examined longitudinal trends in age-standardized rates of sedative use among different age groups of community-dwelling adults (age ≥ 18 yr), from 2004 to 2013. For each calendar year, we classified adults as nonusers, short-term users, or long-term users of sedatives based on their patterns of sedative dispensation. For calendar year 2013, we applied cross-sectional analysis and estimated logistic regression models to identify health and socioeconomic risk factors associated with long-term sedative use. RESULTS More than half (53.4%) of long-term users of sedatives in British Columbia are between ages 18 and 64 years (young and middle-aged adults). From 2004 to 2013, long-term sedative use remained stable among adults more than 65 years of age (older adults) and increased slightly among young and middle-aged adults. Although the use of benzodiazepines decreased during the study period, the trend was offset by equal or greater increases in long-term use of z-drugs. Being an older adult, sick, poor and single were associated with increased odds of long-term sedative use. INTERPRETATION Despite efforts to stem such patterns of medication use, long-term use of sedatives increased in British Columbia between 2004 and 2013. This increase was driven largely by increased use among middle-aged adults. Future deprescribing efforts that target adults of all ages may help curb this trend.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre Weymann
- University of British Columbia (Weymann, Gladstone, Smolina, Morgan), School of Population and Public Health; British Columbia Cancer Agency (Weymann), Canadian Centre for Applied Research in Cancer Control, Vancouver, BC
| | - Emilie J Gladstone
- University of British Columbia (Weymann, Gladstone, Smolina, Morgan), School of Population and Public Health; British Columbia Cancer Agency (Weymann), Canadian Centre for Applied Research in Cancer Control, Vancouver, BC
| | - Kate Smolina
- University of British Columbia (Weymann, Gladstone, Smolina, Morgan), School of Population and Public Health; British Columbia Cancer Agency (Weymann), Canadian Centre for Applied Research in Cancer Control, Vancouver, BC
| | - Steven G Morgan
- University of British Columbia (Weymann, Gladstone, Smolina, Morgan), School of Population and Public Health; British Columbia Cancer Agency (Weymann), Canadian Centre for Applied Research in Cancer Control, Vancouver, BC
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De Maricourt P, Gorwood P, Hergueta T, Galinowski A, Salamon R, Diallo A, Vaugeois C, Lépine JP, Olié JP, Dubois O. Balneotherapy Together with a Psychoeducation Program for Benzodiazepine Withdrawal: A Feasibility Study. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2016; 2016:8961709. [PMID: 27956923 PMCID: PMC5124454 DOI: 10.1155/2016/8961709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Benzodiazepines should be prescribed on a short-term basis, but a significant proportion of patients (%) use them for more than 6 months, constituting a serious public health issue. Indeed, few strategies are effective in helping patients to discontinue long-term benzodiazepine treatments. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and the impact of a program including cognitive behavioural therapy, psychoeducation, and balneotherapy in a spa resort to facilitate long-term discontinuation of benzodiazepines. We conducted a prospective multicentre cohort study. Patients with long-term benzodiazepine use were recruited with the aim of anxiolytic withdrawal by means of a psychoeducational program and daily balneotherapy during 3 weeks. The primary efficacy outcome measure was benzodiazepine use 6 months after the program, compared to use at baseline. A total of 70 subjects were enrolled. At 6 months, overall benzodiazepine intake had decreased by 75.3%, with 41.4% of patients completely stopping benzodiazepine use. The results also suggest a significantly greater improvement in anxiety and depression symptoms among patients who discontinued benzodiazepines compared to patients who only reduced their use. Our findings suggest that balneotherapy in association with a psychoeducative program is efficient in subjects with benzodiazepine addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. De Maricourt
- Service Hospitalo Universitaire de Santé Mentale et de Thérapeutique, Université Paris Descartes, Centre Hospitalier Sainte Anne, Paris, France
- INSERM UMR 894, PRES Sorbonne Centre de Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - P. Gorwood
- INSERM UMR 894, PRES Sorbonne Centre de Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Th. Hergueta
- Laboratoire de Psychopathologie et Processus de Santé (EA 4057), Institut de Psychologie, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - A. Galinowski
- Service Hospitalo Universitaire de Santé Mentale et de Thérapeutique, Université Paris Descartes, Centre Hospitalier Sainte Anne, Paris, France
| | - R. Salamon
- Institute of Public Health, Epidemiology and Development “ISPED”, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux, France
| | - A. Diallo
- Institute of Public Health, Epidemiology and Development “ISPED”, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux, France
| | - C. Vaugeois
- Le Manoir Clinic, 09400 Ussat les Bains, France
| | - J. P. Lépine
- APHP, Département de Psychiatrie et de Médecine Addictologique, Hôpital Fernand Vidal, Paris, France
| | - J. P. Olié
- Service Hospitalo Universitaire de Santé Mentale et de Thérapeutique, Université Paris Descartes, Centre Hospitalier Sainte Anne, Paris, France
- INSERM UMR 894, PRES Sorbonne Centre de Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - O. Dubois
- Saujon Clinic, BP 30, 17600 Saujon, France
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Akpinar A, Yaman AR, Karakus K, Atay IM, Demirci K. The Frequency of Benzodiazepine Use in the Isparta Province. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.5455/bcp.20150707103818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Akpinar
- Suleyman Demirel University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Isparta - Turkey
| | - Ayse Rumeysa Yaman
- Suleyman Demirel University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Isparta - Turkey
| | - Kadir Karakus
- Adnan Menderes University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Aydin - Turkey
| | - Inci Meltem Atay
- Suleyman Demirel University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Isparta - Turkey
| | - Kadir Demirci
- Suleyman Demirel University, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Isparta - Turkey
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Kroll DS, Nieva HR, Barsky AJ, Linder JA. Benzodiazepines are Prescribed More Frequently to Patients Already at Risk for Benzodiazepine-Related Adverse Events in Primary Care. J Gen Intern Med 2016; 31:1027-34. [PMID: 27177914 PMCID: PMC4978684 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-016-3740-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Benzodiazepine use is associated with adverse drug events and higher mortality. Known risk factors for benzodiazepine-related adverse events include lung disease, substance use, and vulnerability to fracture. OBJECTIVE To determine whether benzodiazepine prescribing is associated with risk factors for adverse outcomes. DESIGN Longitudinal cohort study between July 1, 2011, and June 30, 2012. PARTICIPANTS Patients who visited hospital- and community-based practices in a primary care practice-based research network. MAIN MEASURES Odds ratio of having a target medical diagnosis for patients who received standard and high-dose benzodiazepine prescriptions; rates per 100 patients for outpatient and emergency department visits and hospitalizations. KEY RESULTS Among 65,912 patients, clinicians prescribed at least one benzodiazepine to 15 % (9821). Of benzodiazepine recipients, 5 % received high doses. Compared to non-recipients, benzodiazepine recipients were more likely to have diagnoses of depression (OR, 2.7; 95 % CI, 2.6-2.9), substance abuse (OR, 2.2; 95 % CI, 1.9-2.5), tobacco use (OR, 1.7; 95 % CI, 1.5-1.8), osteoporosis (OR, 1.6; 95 % CI, 1.5-1.7), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR, 1.6; 95 % CI, 1.5-1.7), alcohol abuse (OR, 1.5; 95 % CI, 1.3-1.7), sleep apnea (OR, 1.5; 95 % CI, 1.3-1.6), and asthma (OR, 1.5; 95 % CI, 1.4-1.5). Compared to low-dose benzodiazepine recipients, high-dose benzodiazepine recipients were even more likely to have certain medical diagnoses: substance abuse (OR, 7.5; 95 % CI, 5.5-10.1), alcohol abuse (OR, 3.2; 95 % CI, 2.2-4.5), tobacco use (OR, 2.7; 95 % CI, 2.1-3.5), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR, 1.5; 95 % CI, 1.2-1.9). Benzodiazepine recipients had more primary care visits per 100 patients (408 vs. 323), specialist outpatient visits (815 vs. 578), emergency department visits (47 vs. 29), and hospitalizations (26 vs. 15; p < .001 for all comparisons). CONCLUSIONS Clinicians prescribed benzodiazepines and high-dose benzodiazepines more frequently to patients at higher risk for benzodiazepine-related adverse events. Benzodiazepine prescribing was associated with increased healthcare utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Kroll
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02120, USA.
| | - Harry Reyes Nieva
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of General Medicine and Primary Care, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Arthur J Barsky
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02120, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Linder
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of General Medicine and Primary Care, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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Sirdifield C, Chipchase SY, Owen S, Siriwardena AN. A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis of Patients’ Experiences and Perceptions of Seeking and Using Benzodiazepines and Z-Drugs: Towards Safer Prescribing. PATIENT-PATIENT CENTERED OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2016; 10:1-15. [DOI: 10.1007/s40271-016-0182-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Murphy Y, Wilson E, Goldner EM, Fischer B. Benzodiazepine Use, Misuse, and Harm at the Population Level in Canada: A Comprehensive Narrative Review of Data and Developments Since 1995. Clin Drug Investig 2016; 36:519-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s40261-016-0397-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Abstract
This study aimed to determine the frequency of benzodiazepine (BDZ) use in a large sample of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and ascertain the type of BDZ used and the correlates and predictors of BDZ use in OCD. The sample consisted of 955 patients with OCD from a comprehensive, cross-sectional, multicentre study conducted by the Brazilian Research Consortium on Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders between 2003 and 2009. The rate of BDZ use over time in this OCD sample was 38.4%. Of individuals taking BDZs, 96.7% used them in combination with other medications, usually serotonin reuptake inhibitors. The most commonly used BDZ was clonazepam. Current age, current level of anxiety and number of additional medications for OCD taken over time significantly predicted BDZ use. This is the first study to comprehensively examine BDZ use in OCD patients, demonstrating that it is relatively common, despite recommendations from treatment guidelines. Use of BDZs in combination with several other medications over time and in patients with marked anxiety suggests that OCD patients taking BDZs may be more complex and more difficult to manage. This calls for further research and clarification of the role of BDZs in the treatment of OCD.
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Abstract
The short-term effects of benzodiazepines on memory are well established and are suspected in the long term. Eleven studies have been published so far concerning benzodiazepine use and the risk of dementia disorders; nine of these studies concluded these drugs have a deleterious effect, one found a protective effect, and one (the most recently published) observed no effect. The positive association found in some studies could be due to a reverse causation bias since the main indications for benzodiazepines (e.g. sleep disorders, anxiety) can also be prodromes of dementia disorders. This bias is less likely for treatments started more than 10 years before the diagnosis. Among others, three mechanisms could underlie the potential influence of benzodiazepines on the development of dementia disorders. First, benzodiazepines can decrease beta-site amyloid precursor protein-cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE-1) and γ-secretase activity and slow down the accumulation of Aβ oligomers in the brain. This potential positive effect has never been confirmed; the same is true for the prevention of excitotoxicity through benzodiazepine anti-glutamatergic action. Second, since astrocytes located in the area of amyloid plaques could have gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-secreting activity, patients with pre-dementia lesions could be at increased risk of presenting with more pronounced deleterious cognitive effects of benzodiazepines. Finally, owing to the neural compensation and cognitive reserve concepts, some subjects could cope with initial lesions by using/developing alternative networks. By lowering the brain activation level, benzodiazepines could limit this capacity. In conclusion, it is essential that animal studies explore the mechanistic hypotheses of this association found by most of the pharmacoepidemiological studies conducted on this topic.
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Pollmann AS, Murphy AL, Bergman JC, Gardner DM. Deprescribing benzodiazepines and Z-drugs in community-dwelling adults: a scoping review. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2015; 16:19. [PMID: 26141716 PMCID: PMC4491204 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-015-0019-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term sedative use is prevalent and associated with significant morbidity, including adverse events such as falls, cognitive impairment, and sedation. The development of dependence can pose significant challenges when discontinuation is attempted as withdrawal symptoms often develop. We conducted a scoping review to map and characterize the literature and determine opportunities for future research regarding deprescribing strategies for long-term benzodiazepine and Z-drug (zopiclone, zolpidem, and zaleplon) use in community-dwelling adults. METHODS We searched PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, TRIP, and JBI Ovid databases and conducted a grey literature search. Articles discussing methods for deprescribing benzodiazepines or Z-drugs in community-dwelling adults were selected. RESULTS Following removal of duplicates, 2797 articles were reviewed for eligibility. Of these, 367 were retrieved for full-text assessment and 139 were subsequently included for review. Seventy-four (53%) articles were original research, predominantly randomized controlled trials (n = 52 [37%]), whereas 58 (42%) were narrative reviews and seven (5%) were guidelines. Amongst original studies, pharmacologic strategies were the most commonly studied intervention (n = 42 [57%]). Additional deprescribing strategies included psychological therapies (n = 10 [14%]), mixed interventions (n = 12 [16%]), and others (n = 10 [14%]). Behaviour change interventions were commonly combined and included enablement (n = 56 [76%]), education (n = 36 [47%]), and training (n = 29 [39%]). Gradual dose reduction was frequently a component of studies, reviews, and guidelines, but methods varied widely. CONCLUSIONS Approaches proposed for deprescribing benzodiazepines and Z-drugs are numerous and heterogeneous. Current research in this area using methods such as randomized trials and meta-analyses may too narrowly encompass potential strategies available to target this phenomenon. Realist synthesis methods would be well suited to understand the mechanisms by which deprescribing interventions work and why they fail.
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Affiliation(s)
- André S Pollmann
- Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Mail Box #259, 5849 University Avenue, Room C-125, PO Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Andrea L Murphy
- College of Pharmacy and Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, 5968 College St, PO Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Joel C Bergman
- College of Pharmacy and Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, 5968 College St, PO Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - David M Gardner
- Department of Psychiatry and College of Pharmacy, Dalhousie University, QEII HSC, AJLB 7517, 5909 Veterans' Memorial Lane, Halifax, NS, B3H 2E2, Canada.
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Billioti de Gage S, Pariente A, Bégaud B. Is there really a link between benzodiazepine use and the risk of dementia? Expert Opin Drug Saf 2015; 14:733-47. [DOI: 10.1517/14740338.2015.1014796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Antoine Pariente
- 2Université de Bordeaux, INSERM, U657-Pharmacoepidemiology, Bordeaux F-33000, France
| | - Bernard Bégaud
- 2Université de Bordeaux, INSERM, U657-Pharmacoepidemiology, Bordeaux F-33000, France
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Tampi RR, Tampi DJ. Efficacy and tolerability of benzodiazepines for the treatment of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2014; 29:565-74. [PMID: 25551131 PMCID: PMC10852883 DOI: 10.1177/1533317514524813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this review is to summarize the available data on the use of benzodiazepines for the treatment of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A systematic search of 5 major databases, PubMed, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, EMBASE, and Cochrane Collaboration, yielded a total of 5 RCTs. One study compared diazepam to thioridazine, 1 trial compared oxazepam to haloperidol and diphenhydramine, 1 trial compared alprazolam to lorazepam, 1 trial compared lorazepam to haloperidol, and 1 trial compared intramuscular (IM) lorazepam to IM olanzapine and placebo. The data indicates that in 4 of the 5 studies, there was no significant difference in efficacy between the active drugs to treat the symptoms of BPSD. One study indicated that thioridazine may have better efficacy than diazepam for treating symptoms of BPSD. In 1 study, the active drugs had greater efficacy in treating BPSD when compared to placebo. There was no significant difference between the active drugs in terms of tolerability. However, in 2 of the 5 studies, about a third of the patients were noted to have dropped out of the studies. Available data, although limited, do not support the routine use of benzodiazepines for the treatment of BPSD. But these drugs may be used in certain circumstances where other psychotropic medications are unsafe for use in individuals with BPSD or when there are significant medication allergies or tolerability issues with certain classes of psychotropic medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh R. Tampi
- Adult Psychiatry Residency, Regional Academic Health Center, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Harlingen, TX, USA
| | - Deena J. Tampi
- Behavioral Health Services, Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, Hartford, CT, USA
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Starcevic V. The reappraisal of benzodiazepines in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 14:1275-86. [PMID: 25242262 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2014.963057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Benzodiazepines (BDZs) continue to be shrouded in controversy, mainly because of dependence associated with their long-term use and some of their side effects. Despite treatment recommendations favoring newer antidepressants, BDZs are still commonly prescribed for anxiety and related disorders. Recent studies have demonstrated that long-term use of BDZs for these conditions can be effective and safe and that BDZs can be combined with psychological therapy and antidepressants to produce optimal outcomes. Such findings, along with a failure to convincingly demonstrate the overall superiority of alternative pharmacotherapy for anxiety and related disorders, have given an impetus to a reconsideration of the role of BDZs. This article reviews BDZs and other pharmacotherapy options for anxiety and related disorders and suggests that treatment guidelines should acknowledge that BDZs can be used as first-line, long-term pharmacological treatment for panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladan Starcevic
- Department of Psychiatry, Sydney Medical School - Nepean, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, PO Box 63; Penrith NSW 2751, Sydney, Australia
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Billioti de Gage S, Moride Y, Ducruet T, Kurth T, Verdoux H, Tournier M, Pariente A, Bégaud B. Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer's disease: case-control study. BMJ 2014; 349:g5205. [PMID: 25208536 PMCID: PMC4159609 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.g5205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 329] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the relation between the risk of Alzheimer's disease and exposure to benzodiazepines started at least five years before, considering both the dose-response relation and prodromes (anxiety, depression, insomnia) possibly linked with treatment. DESIGN Case-control study. SETTING The Quebec health insurance program database (RAMQ). PARTICIPANTS 1796 people with a first diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and followed up for at least six years before were matched with 7184 controls on sex, age group, and duration of follow-up. Both groups were randomly sampled from older people (age >66) living in the community in 2000-09. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The association between Alzheimer's disease and benzodiazepine use started at least five years before diagnosis was assessed by using multivariable conditional logistic regression. Ever exposure to benzodiazepines was first considered and then categorised according to the cumulative dose expressed as prescribed daily doses (1-90, 91-180, >180) and the drug elimination half life. RESULTS Benzodiazepine ever use was associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (adjusted odds ratio 1.51, 95% confidence interval 1.36 to 1.69; further adjustment on anxiety, depression, and insomnia did not markedly alter this result: 1.43, 1.28 to 1.60). No association was found for a cumulative dose <91 prescribed daily doses. The strength of association increased with exposure density (1.32 (1.01 to 1.74) for 91-180 prescribed daily doses and 1.84 (1.62 to 2.08) for >180 prescribed daily doses) and with the drug half life (1.43 (1.27 to 1.61) for short acting drugs and 1.70 (1.46 to 1.98) for long acting ones). CONCLUSION Benzodiazepine use is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. The stronger association observed for long term exposures reinforces the suspicion of a possible direct association, even if benzodiazepine use might also be an early marker of a condition associated with an increased risk of dementia. Unwarranted long term use of these drugs should be considered as a public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yola Moride
- Research Center, University of Montreal Hospital Center, Montreal, Canada Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Thierry Ducruet
- Research Center, University of Montreal Hospital Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Tobias Kurth
- Inserm Research Center for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, U897-Team Neuroepidemiology, F-33000 Bordeaux, France University of Bordeaux, College of Health Sciences, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Hélène Verdoux
- INSERM, U657-Pharmacoepidemiology, Université de Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France Centre Hospitalier Charles Perrens, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Marie Tournier
- INSERM, U657-Pharmacoepidemiology, Université de Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France Centre Hospitalier Charles Perrens, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Antoine Pariente
- INSERM, U657-Pharmacoepidemiology, Université de Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Bernard Bégaud
- INSERM, U657-Pharmacoepidemiology, Université de Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
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Impact of the Combined Use of Benzodiazepines and Opioids on Workers' Compensation Claim Cost. J Occup Environ Med 2014; 56:973-8. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Li YH, Xiang YT, Su YA, Shu L, Yu X, Kilbourne AM, Ungvari GS, Chiu HF, Ma C, Wang GH, Bai PS, Liu XH, Sun LZ, Shi JG, Chen XS, Mei QY, Li KQ, Si TM. Long-term benzodiazepine use in patients with major depressive disorder in China. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2014; 50:149-54. [PMID: 24308911 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2013] [Revised: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE There have been no data about long-term benzodiazepine (BZD) use and its correlates in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) in China. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of long-term BZD use (more than three months) and its demographic and clinical correlates in Chinese patients with MDD. DESIGN AND METHODS A total of 1,192 patients with MDD were examined in 10 mental health centers in China. Patients' socio-demographic and clinical characteristics and prescriptions for psychotropic drugs were recorded using a standardized form. FINDINGS A large portion of patients (36.2%) received long-term BZD treatment. Univariate analyses revealed that long-term BZD users were older, poorer, and had more impaired occupational functioning than patients not taking BZDs. Long-term BZD users had fewer psychotic symptoms and took less antipsychotic drugs. In multivariate analyses, long-term BZD use was independently associated with older age and more severe impaired occupational functioning; long-term BZD users were less likely to receive antipsychotic medications and traditional antidepressants (tricyclic antidepressants, tetracyclic antidepressant, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors). PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Long-term BZD use was common in patients with MDD in China. A host of demographic and clinical factors were independently associated with long-term BZD use.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Hong Li
- The Key Laboratory of Mental Health; Ministry of Mental Health & Peking University Institute of Mental Health; Beijing China
| | - Yu-Tao Xiang
- Beijing Anding Hospital; Capital Medical University; Beijing China
- Department of Psychiatry; Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Yun-Ai Su
- The Key Laboratory of Mental Health; Ministry of Mental Health & Peking University Institute of Mental Health; Beijing China
| | - Liang Shu
- The Key Laboratory of Mental Health; Ministry of Mental Health & Peking University Institute of Mental Health; Beijing China
| | - Xin Yu
- The Key Laboratory of Mental Health; Ministry of Mental Health & Peking University Institute of Mental Health; Beijing China
| | - Amy M. Kilbourne
- Department of Psychiatry; University of Michigan Medical School; Ann Arbor Michigan USA
- Veterans Administration Ann Arbor Center for Clinical Management Research; Ann Arbor Michigan USA
| | - Gabor S. Ungvari
- The University of Notre Dame Australia/Marian Centre; Perth Western Australia Australia
- School of Psychiatry & Clinical Neurosciences; University of Western Australia; Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Helen F.K. Chiu
- Department of Psychiatry; Chinese University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Cui Ma
- Psychiatric Hospital; Guangzhou Guangdong Province China
| | - Gao-Hua Wang
- Department of Psychiatry; Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University; Wuhan Hubei Province China
| | - Pei-Shen Bai
- The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University; Taiyuan Shanxi Province China
| | - Xie-He Liu
- West China Hospital; Sichuan University; Chengdu Sichuan China
| | - Li-Zhong Sun
- Neuropsychiatric Hospital; Changchun Jilin Province China
| | - Jian-Guo Shi
- Mental Health Center; Xi-an Shaanxi Province China
| | - Xian-Sheng Chen
- Jiangxi Psychiatric Hospital; Nanchang Jiangxi Province China
| | - Qi-Yi Mei
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital; Suzhou Jiangsu Province China
| | - Ke-Qing Li
- Hebei Mental Health Center; Tangshan Hebei Province China
| | - Tian-Mei Si
- The Key Laboratory of Mental Health; Ministry of Mental Health & Peking University Institute of Mental Health; Beijing China
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Addressing the Issue of Chronic, Inappropriate Benzodiazepine Use: How Can Pharmacists Play a Role? PHARMACY 2013. [DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy1020065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
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48
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Wojcik SM, Tantra M, Stepniak B, Man KNM, Müller-Ribbe K, Begemann M, Ju A, Papiol S, Ronnenberg A, Gurvich A, Shin Y, Augustin I, Brose N, Ehrenreich H. Genetic markers of a Munc13 protein family member, BAIAP3, are gender specifically associated with anxiety and benzodiazepine abuse in mice and humans. Mol Med 2013; 19:135-48. [PMID: 23698091 DOI: 10.2119/molmed.2013.00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Anxiety disorders and substance abuse, including benzodiazepine use disorder, frequently occur together. Unfortunately, treatment of anxiety disorders still includes benzodiazepines, and patients with an existing comorbid benzodiazepine use disorder or a genetic susceptibility for benzodiazepine use disorder may be at risk of adverse treatment outcomes. The identification of genetic predictors for anxiety disorders, and especially for benzodiazepine use disorder, could aid the selection of the best treatment option and improve clinical outcomes. The brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor I-associated protein 3 (Baiap3) is a member of the mammalian uncoordinated 13 (Munc13) protein family of synaptic regulators of neurotransmitter exocytosis, with a striking expression pattern in amygdalae, hypothalamus and periaqueductal gray. Deletion of Baiap3 in mice leads to enhanced seizure propensity and increased anxiety, with the latter being more pronounced in female than in male animals. We hypothesized that genetic variation in human BAIAP3 may also be associated with anxiety. By using a phenotype-based genetic association study, we identified two human BAIAP3 single-nucleotide polymorphism risk genotypes (AA for rs2235632, TT for rs1132358) that show a significant association with anxiety in women and, surprisingly, with benzodiazepine abuse in men. Returning to mice, we found that male, but not female, Baiap3 knockout (KO) mice develop tolerance to diazepam more quickly than control animals. Analysis of cultured Baiap3 KO hypothalamus slices revealed an increase in basal network activity and an altered response to diazepam withdrawal. Thus, Baiap3/BAIAP3 is gender specifically associated with anxiety and benzodiazepine use disorder, and the analysis of Baiap3/BAIAP3-related functions may help elucidate mechanisms underlying the development of both disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja M Wojcik
- Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Göttingen, Germany.
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Hsiao FY, Hsieh PH, Gau CS. Ten-year trend in prescriptions of z-hypnotics among the elderly: A nationwide, cross-sectional study in Taiwan. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcgg.2012.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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50
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Azermai M, Bourgeois J, Somers A, Petrovic M. Inappropriate use of psychotropic drugs in older individuals: implications for practice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.2217/ahe.13.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Frailty at old age and institutionalization in nursing homes are often associated with multiple chronic diseases (multimorbidity) requiring multiple medications (polypharmacy). Among these chronic conditions, mental health problems (e.g., dementia, depression and insomnia) are common. Psychotropic drugs are frequently used as a treatment approach for these conditions, and the prevalence of their use is high among community-dwelling older adults, but even higher in nursing homes. Furthermore, within the problem of polypharmacy and inappropriate prescribing, psychotropic drugs (defined in this article as antipsychotics, benzodiazepines and antidepressants) constitute a significant proportion. The use of psychotropics in older adults remains controversial given the risk of adverse effects, in contrast to the limited effectiveness. Guidelines advise a thorough risk–benefit analysis before the initiation of psychotropics, in addition to time-limited use and discontinuation. In the future, serious efforts should be undertaken to tackle the burden of inappropriate psychotropic prescribing in older adults by incorporating a multidisciplinary approach and by offering credible alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majda Azermai
- Heymans Institute of Pharmacology, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (1 Blok B), 9000 Gent, Belgium.
| | - Jolyce Bourgeois
- Heymans Institute of Pharmacology, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (1 Blok B), 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Annemie Somers
- Department of Pharmacy, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - Mirko Petrovic
- Heymans Institute of Pharmacology, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185 (1 Blok B), 9000 Gent, Belgium
- Department of Geriatrics, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
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