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Benzodiazepines

All articles tagged with #benzodiazepines

health1 day ago

Dementia Patients Still Prescribed Risky Brain-Active Drugs, Study Finds

A UCLA-led analysis of Health and Retirement Study linked to Medicare claims finds that about 25% of older adults with dementia receive brain-altering CNS medications, with two-thirds lacking a documented clinical indication in 2021; while overall inappropriate CNS prescribing fell from 15.7% to 11.4% and benzodiazepine and sleep-drug use declined, antipsychotic prescriptions rose from 2.6% to 3.6%, underscoring persistent safety risks for vulnerable seniors and the need to taper or stop these medications when not clearly indicated.

via UCLA Health|
#antipsychotics#benzodiazepines#cns-active-medications
health1 year ago

"Understanding the Process of De-Prescribing Psychiatric Medications"

De-prescribing psychiatric drugs is an important consideration, as many psychiatric illnesses can be intermittent and highly variable. For those with a history of only one episode of depression, it may be safe to consider stopping treatment after a period of recovery, typically six months to a year. De-prescribing is also crucial for popular anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines, which can be habit forming and have serious potential adverse effects over time. Additionally, rational de-prescribing is essential in cases of polypharmacy, where multiple medications are used simultaneously, to avoid a "psychotropic drug soup" and simplify complex treatments without loss of benefit.

via The Washington Post|
#benzodiazepines#de-prescribing#health
health2 years ago

Understanding the Risks of Long-Term Xanax Use and the Importance of Tapering

A reader asks Dr. Keith Roach about the long-term risks of continued use of Xanax (alprazolam) for sleep. Dr. Roach highlights a recent study that suggests chronic use of benzodiazepines like Xanax can lead to neurological dysfunction, including low energy, difficulty concentrating, memory loss, and anxiety. He advises against suddenly discontinuing the medication and recommends a slow tapering process under medical supervision. Dr. Roach also suggests considering behavioral treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, as a safer and more effective alternative for insomnia. In response to another question, he advises against fruit and vegetable supplements, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet with fresh or frozen produce for optimal nutrition.

via OregonLive|
#benzodiazepines#fruit-and-vegetable-supplements#health
health2 years ago

"Questioning the Efficacy of a Common Anxiety Pill: A Closer Look"

A re-evaluation of trials and studies on the efficacy of Xanax, a commonly prescribed anxiety medication, has found that its effectiveness may have been exaggerated by approximately 40 percent due to publication bias. While still more effective than a placebo, the drug's efficacy was inflated in published studies. Only one out of the five trials reviewed by the FDA was deemed positive, raising questions about the drug's actual effectiveness. Xanax, a benzodiazepine, is known for its addictive nature and potential side effects. The study highlights the need for further examination of the drug's efficacy and raises concerns about its widespread use.

via Daily Mail|
#anxiety#benzodiazepines#efficacy
health2 years ago

"Controversial Findings Challenge Xanax's Efficacy in New Study"

A new study published in Psychological Medicine suggests that the widely prescribed sedative alprazolam (Xanax XR) may be less effective than previously believed, with publication bias potentially inflating its efficacy by over 40%. The research examined both published and unpublished data from five randomized controlled clinical trials reviewed by the FDA for alprazolam. Benzodiazepines, including Xanax, have been associated with clinical risks such as dependence, withdrawal, falls, and cognitive impairment. The study's findings raise questions about the effectiveness of Xanax and highlight the need for caution when prescribing benzodiazepines.

via SciTechDaily|
#benzodiazepines#efficacy#health
health2 years ago

"Controversy Surrounding Xanax's Effectiveness"

A new study analyzing both published and unpublished clinical trial data has raised questions about the efficacy of alprazolam (Xanax XR), a widely prescribed benzodiazepine sedative. Out of the five FDA-reviewed trials, only one showed a clearly positive outcome. The study suggests that publication bias may have inflated the drug's effectiveness by over 40%. Researchers emphasize the need for caution when prescribing this medication, especially for first-time users.

via Neuroscience News|
#benzodiazepines#caution#efficacy
health2 years ago

The Alarming Consequences of a Widely Prescribed Drug

A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus reveals a link between the use of benzodiazepines, a widely prescribed class of drugs, and long-term neurological complications. The study introduces the term "benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction" (BIND) to describe the condition, which includes symptoms such as memory loss, anxiety, insomnia, and suicidal thoughts. The findings call for a change in prescription practices and further research into the condition and treatment options. The survey, which included over 1,200 benzodiazepine users, found that these symptoms persisted for months or even years after discontinuation, leading to negative impacts on various aspects of life, including relationships and employment.

via SciTechDaily|
#benzodiazepines#health#mental-health
health2 years ago

Understanding and Treating Lymphedema: Essential Steps for Diagnosis and Care

Lymphedema is a condition characterized by swelling caused by improper functioning of the lymphatics. It can be misdiagnosed and often requires a careful medical history and physical examination for an accurate diagnosis. Initial treatment options include elevation of the affected limb, regular exercise, skin care, and compression therapy. Compression devices and manual lymphatic drainage can help manage the condition. In regards to tapering off benzodiazepines like lorazepam, it is generally recommended to do so due to the increased risk of falls and motor vehicle accidents associated with long-term use. However, the decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, taking into consideration the individual's specific circumstances and preferences.

via OregonLive|
#benzodiazepines#compression-therapy#health
health2 years ago

The Dangerous Consequences of Benzodiazepine Use: Brain Injury, Job Loss, and Suicide

Benzodiazepines like Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin, commonly prescribed for anxiety, have been linked to nervous system injury, negative life effects, memory issues, cognitive decline, and prolonged withdrawal symptoms. A survey conducted by researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus reveals that a subset of patients experience long-term neurological complications from benzodiazepine usage. Many patients report symptoms lasting for months to over a year, including low energy, difficulty focusing, memory loss, anxiety, insomnia, and more. Negative life impacts such as damaged relationships, job loss, and increased medical costs were also reported, with over half of the respondents experiencing suicidal thoughts or attempts. The condition, known as benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction (BIND), requires further research for better understanding and treatment.

via Study Finds|
#anxiety#benzodiazepines#brain-injury
health2 years ago

The Dangerous Consequences of Benzodiazepines: Brain Injury, Job Loss, and Suicide

Benzodiazepines like Xanax and Valium, commonly prescribed for anxiety, have been linked to nervous system injury, negative life effects, memory issues, and cognitive decline. Many patients experience withdrawal symptoms and rebound anxiety when trying to stop using these drugs, with long-lasting symptoms such as low energy, difficulty focusing, memory loss, anxiety, insomnia, and more. The condition, known as benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction (BIND), occurs in about one in five long-term users. The study highlights the need for further research and a change in how these drugs are prescribed.

via Study Finds|
#anxiety#benzodiazepines#health
health2 years ago

The Devastating Consequences of Benzodiazepine Use: Brain Injury, Job Loss, and Suicide

A new study from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus reveals that benzodiazepine use and discontinuation are associated with long-term neurological complications, including brain injury, job loss, and suicide. The survey, which included over 1,200 benzodiazepine users, found that symptoms such as low energy, difficulty focusing, memory loss, anxiety, insomnia, and digestive problems persisted for months or more than a year after discontinuation. These symptoms were often new and distinct from the original symptoms for which benzodiazepines were prescribed. The study highlights the need for further research and a reconsideration of how benzodiazepines are prescribed.

via Medical Xpress|
#benzodiazepines#brain-injury#health
health2 years ago

Dementia risk linked to certain drugs.

Two types of drugs, benzodiazepines and anticholinergics, have been linked to an increased risk of dementia, according to two population-based studies. The risk of dementia increases with longer use of the drugs. Both drugs affect neurotransmitters, with anticholinergics blocking acetylcholine involved in learning and memory, and benzodiazepines making gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which slows down the neurons in the brain. Risk factors for developing dementia include age, high blood pressure and blood sugar, obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, and drinking too much alcohol. The World Health Organization recommends staying physically active, eating healthy, stopping smoking and drinking alcohol, maintaining journals, keeping up with hobbies, and developing newer passions every day to avoid developing dementia.

via Times of India|
#anticholinergics#benzodiazepines#dementia