Comparative safety of chronic versus intermittent benzodiazepine prescribing in older adults: A population-based cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Benzodiazepine treatment recommendations for older adults differ markedly between guidelines, especially their advice on the acceptability of long-term use.

Aims

Using population-based data we compared risks associated with chronic versus intermittent benzodiazepine usage in older adults. The primary outcome was falls resulting in hospital/emergency department visits.

Methods

We undertook a retrospective population-based cohort study using linked healthcare databases in adults aged ⩾ 66 years in Ontario, Canada, with a first prescription for benzodiazepines. Chronic and intermittent benzodiazepine users, based on the 180 days from index prescription, were matched (1:2 ratio) by sex, age and propensity score, then followed for up to 360 days. Hazard ratios (

SUBMITTER: Davies SJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9066681 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature