Clinical characteristics of chronic elderly Benzodiazepines

consumersAuthors: G. Vazquez, G. Rovira , B. Jiménez, R. Moteserín

• To study the prevalence of long-term use of benzodiazepines (≥3 months) and the factors associated with its use

Objective

• Long-term use of benzodiazepines (BZDs) is very common phenomenon. It is important to know which short-term users are at risk of becoming long-term users.

• Not only is such use ineffective, but it also has several risks such as memory impairment and risk of falls (especially in elderly) in addition to dependence risk.

• Despite its addictive potential effect and the long term adverse effects, it remain as first choice worldwide for the management of anxiety and insomnia.

Background

• Design: Cross-sectional study. • Scope: Urban health center• Participants: 620 community older adults (up to 74

years).• Exclusion criteria:

i. Severe cognitive impairmentii. Terminal illnessiii. Inability to attend the center autonomously

Material and Methods

• Variables Measured: i. Socio-demographic characteristics ii. Clinical and mental health (comorbidity, geriatric

syndromes, chronic medication)iii. Cognitive/affective studio (Mini-Mental Stat Examination,

Yesavage-5)iv. Functionality (Barthel Index of Activities of Daily Living)v. Nutrition and social state (Mini Nutritional Assessment,

Social Gijon Scale)

Results (I)Long term use of benzodiazepines was significantly associated with:

Results (II)Other geriatric conditions frequently associated were:

Results (III)

Association was also found in those with high scores on Barthel Index, Gijón Scale and Yesavage-5 Scale

Results (IV)PHOTO FINISH: The consume of long term Benzodiazepines was associated with:

• Elderly people are heavy users of Benzodiazepines (1/3 study population)

• Data suggest that women with polyfarmacy and depression are the most commune long term consumers.

• Interventions performed by GP may help patients to discontinue or reduce the number of elderly people becoming long-term users.

• It is important to design interventions in order to improve the appropriately use of this medication

Conclusions:

Thank you so much for your attention!