Chronic benzodiazepine usage among older people: prevalence, indications, and treatment modifications in patients admitted to an acute geriatric unit

Aim: To investigate the prevalence and indications of benzodiazepines (BZD) usage among patients admitted to an acute geriatric unit and assess changes in prescriptions.

Methods: BZD indications were documented reviewing clinical records, with appropriateness assessed based on the STOPP-START criteria. Changes in BZD prescriptions were recorded at discharge and 3 months later.

Results: Among the 366 patients included (mean age: 92.8 years, 68% females), 91 (24.9%) were on BZD upon admission, being inappropriate in 93.4%. At discharge, BZD discontinuation was observed in 40.7% and dose reduction initiated in 57.4%. Among patients discharged without prescriptions, 10.8% resumed their use at 3 months. Of those discharged with BZD tapering, 74.1% were still on them 3 months later.

Conclusions: The majority of patients employing BZD lacked a medical indication. Admission to a geriatric ward resulted in successful discontinuation or dose reduction for most patients but was not maintained in the outpatient setting.