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In the elderly, long-term benzodiazepine therapy is a risk factor for amplifying cognitive decline, [29] although gradual withdrawal is associated with improved cognitive status. [30] A study of alprazolam found that 8 weeks administration of alprazolam resulted in deficits that were detectable after several weeks but not after 3.5 years. [31]
A box of Lorazepam Orion (Lorazepam) tablets. Lorazepam, sold under the brand name Ativan among others, is a benzodiazepine medication. [14] It is used to treat anxiety (including anxiety disorders), trouble sleeping, severe agitation, active seizures including status epilepticus, alcohol withdrawal, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. [14]
Improved reaction times were noted at 52 weeks in elderly patients free from benzodiazepines. This is an important function in the elderly, especially if they drive a car due to the increased risk of road traffic accidents in benzodiazepine users. [136] At the 24-week follow-up, 80% of people had successfully withdrawn from benzodiazepines.
Lorazepam. Sold under the brand name Ativan®, lorazepam is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety in some cases. Oxazepam. As a generic and the brand names drugs Serax and Zaxopam, oxazepam is used to ...
[22] [162] [163] The elderly are more sensitive to the side effects of benzodiazepines, and poisoning may even occur from their long-term use. [164] The various benzodiazepines differ in their toxicity; temazepam appears most toxic in overdose and when used with other drugs.
The elderly are particularly sensitive to the adverse effects of hypnotic medications. A clinical trial in elderly people dependent on benzodiazepine hypnotics showed that the addition of CBT to a gradual benzodiazepine reduction program increased the success rate of discontinuing benzodiazepine hypnotic drugs from 38% to 77% and at the 12 ...
Due to increased sensitivity and potentially dangerous adverse events among elderly patients, it is recommended to avoid prescribing them as specified by the 2015 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria. [6] Individuals with an impaired liver also metabolize benzodiazepines more slowly.
These effects may become apparent during continued use or may appear as withdrawal symptoms when dosage is reduced or the drug is stopped. [citation needed] ***Equivalent doses are based on clinical experience but may vary between individuals. [34] ****Etizolam is not a true benzodiazepine but has similar chemistry, effects, and abuse potential.