Are there any studies confirming the perceived wisdom regarding the risks of long-term benzodiazepine and hypnotic use with regard to elderly patients falling and sustaining fractures?
CKS have developed guidance on benzodiazepine and z drug withdrawal (1). This includes a section on why benzodiazepines and z-drugs should be stopped. The development of tolerance progressively reduces the benefits of using benzodiazepines for the treatment of insomnia or anxiety. Continuing treatment may serve only to prevent withdrawal symptoms, which commonly mimic the original problem for which benzodiazepines were prescribed. Continuing benzodiazepine treatment is associated with: Increased risk of fractured hips in older people A cohort study of 125,203 people aged 65 years or more found that the risk of hip fracture was increased by 24% (95% CI 6% to 44%) in people taking benzodiazepines compared with those not taking benzodiazepines [Wagner et al, 2004]. Increased risk of injury in a road traffic accident [DTB, 2004]. Indeed, if a person is on a dose level above British National Formulary (BNF) limits, this will result in revocation of their driving licence, as will lower doses
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