Benzodiazepine Use and Abuse

Abstract

Benzodiazepines have been around for nearly 60 years and are still widely used. Shortly after their introduction, their potential for abuse and dependence began to be recognized. Although their adverse effects are now widely known, their use and abuse continues to be a significant problem. They are useful drugs that are effective for a wide variety of psychiatric and nonpsychiatric conditions, but they do have a number of side effects even when used appropriately. More importantly, tolerance and dependence can develop rapidly, and management requires a number of different strategies depending on the extent of the abuse. Clinicians need to be wary of the potential long-term ramifications of prescribing these medications to their patients. [ Psychiatr Ann. 2018;48(8):360–365.]

Assessing the clinical utility of the severity dependence scale for benzodiazepine use disorder

“… 1 However, there is no definitive evidence in support of its long-term use considering their side effect profile and issues with dependence. 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 Indications for use in psychiatry range from sedation to management of sleep and anxiety. 3 , 4 However, regarding these particular indications, research outcomes remain mixed indicating that chronic benzodiazepine use may exacerbate anxiety, sleep and depressive-related symptoms.…”