Reasons for using
Benzodiazepines
When benzodiazepines should be used cautiously or avoided
- Older adults are much more likely to get side effects with benzodiazepines due to changes in medication effect and how they are managed by the body
- Therefore, benzodiazepines are best avoided, or if they are needed, should be used cautiously with older adults
- They should also be used cautiously for people with liver or kidney disease
"Benzodiazepines are potentially inappropriate medications for adults aged 65 years or older."American Geriatric Society |
Common indications for using Benzodiazepines
- Benzodiazepines are most commonly prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and poor sleep (insomnia).
- However, as they have many side effects and there are other safer medications available, they should only be used to treat certain medical problems.
- Reasons for using benzodiazepines include:
- Ongoing seizures
- Alcohol withdrawal
- Benzodiazepine withdrawal
- Acute mania
- Spastic disorders
- They are generally NOT recommended for treating insomnia (poor sleep) or anxiety.