Toxicity of benzodiazepines in the treatment of insomnia disorders in older adults: a systematic literature review.
Croat Med J
; 65(2): 146-155, 2024 Apr 30.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38706240
ABSTRACT
AIM:
To review the literature data on the prevalence of benzodiazepines abuse and poisoning in older adults; the prevalence of polypharmacy with benzodiazepines in this demographic; and determine whether benzodiazepine anxiolytics or hypnotics were more frequently implicated in the cases of abuse and poisoning.METHODS:
We searched PubMed and Scopus for relevant studies published from January 1, 2013, to May 1, 2023. Twelve studies were included in the final selection.RESULTS:
The review highlights the diverse prevalence rates of benzodiazepine abuse and poisoning in the older adult population. Benzodiazepine anxiolytics were more frequently associated with negative outcomes than benzodiazepine hypnotics. Concurrent use of benzodiazepines, benzodiazepine-related medications, and opioids was reported, although these medications were not the only ones commonly used by the elderly.CONCLUSION:
It is essential to increase awareness about adhering to prescribed pharmacological therapies to mitigate issues related to drug abuse and poisoning among older adults.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Benzodiazepines
/
Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders
Limits:
Aged
/
Aged80
/
Humans
Language:
En
Journal:
Croat Med J
Journal subject:
MEDICINA
Year:
2024
Document type:
Article