Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates Long-term Benzo Use: What The Data Really Show
Mar 22, 2025
Scott Beach, a psychopharmacology expert, shares insights from a groundbreaking Danish registry study on long-term benzodiazepine use. The findings challenge the belief that patients inevitably escalate dosages over time, revealing that many users decrease their doses instead. Beach discusses the implications for vulnerable populations, particularly in palliative care, where deprescribing is critical. He advocates for a patient-centric approach to treatment, emphasizing the need for personalized prescribing practices and ongoing education to reshape current guidelines.
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Lisa's Panic Attacks
- Lisa, a 45-year-old teacher, experiences severe panic attacks.
- Her physician hesitates to prescribe benzodiazepines due to dependence concerns.
Benzodiazepine Use Patterns
- A Danish study challenges common beliefs about long-term benzodiazepine use.
- Only 15% of patients used them for over a year, and 46% filled their prescription only once.
Danish Registry Study Details
- A 20-year Danish registry study tracked nearly 1 million benzodiazepine prescriptions.
- 15% of patients used the medication for over a year, with the lowest long-term use among anxiolytic benzodiazepines.