Benzodiazepine Discontinuation and Mortality Among Patients Receiving Long-Term Benzodiazepine Therapy

Original research
by
Maust, Donovan T. et al

Release Date

2023

Geography

USA

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

To identify the association of benzodiazepine discontinuation with mortality and other adverse events among patients prescribed stable long-term benzodiazepine therapy, stratified by baseline opioid exposure.

Findings/Key points

Discontinuation was associated with small absolute increases in mortality and other potential harms, including nonfatal overdose, suicide attempt, suicidal ideation, and emergency department visits.

Design/methods

This comparative effectiveness study with a trial emulation approach included data from a US commercial insurance database between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2017. Eligible participants (n=353,576) were adults with stable long-term benzodiazepine prescription treatment.

Keywords

Mortality
Outcomes
Transitions in care/treatment