Conference paper

SIDE EFFECTS OF TREATMENT WITH BENZODIAZEPINES

Suzana Uzun ; University Department, Vrapče Psychiatric Hospital, Bolnicka cesta 32, 10090 Zagreb, Croatia
Oliver Kozumplik ; University Department, Vrapče Psychiatric Hospital, Bolnicka cesta 32, 10090 Zagreb, Croatia
Miro Jakovljević ; School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3b, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Biserka Sedić ; University of Applied Health Studies, Mlinarska cesta 38, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

Abstract

Background: The use of benzodiazepine anxiolytics and hypnotics continues to excite controversy. Views differ from expert to
expert and from country to country as to the extent of the problem, or even whether long-term benzodiazepine use actually constitutes
a problem. Although as a class benzodiazepines act rapidly and are well tolerated, their use presents clinical issues such as
dependence, rebound anxiety, memory impairment, and discontinuation syndrome. The aim of this article is to review literature regarding different side effects associated with treatment with benzodiazepines – effects on cognition, treatment with
benzodiazepines during pregnancy, dependence on benzodiazepines and risk of falling.
Content analysis of literature: Literature research included structured searches of Medline and other publications on the subject
of treatment with benzodiazepines, particularly effects on cognition, risk of falls, benzodiazepine dependence and treatment with
benzodiazepines during pregnancy.
Conclusion: Results of investigations have revealed different side effects associated with treatment with benzodiazepines.
Previous investigations showed that treatment with benzodiazepines may induce anterograde amnesia. Also, previous studies
confirmed occurrence of physical dependence in high percentage of patients in long term treatment with benzodiazepines at
therapeutic dosages. Some investigation suggested higher risk of oral cleft, the floppy infant syndrome, or marked neonatal
withdrawal symptoms when using benzodiazepines during pregnany. Investigations have shown increased risk of falling in elderly
persons taking benzodiazepines.

Keywords

benzodiazepines; treatment; cognitive decline; dependence

Hrčak ID:

48626

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/48626

Publication date:

10.2.2010.

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