[The prophylaxis of benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome in the elderly: the effectiveness of carbamazepine. Double-blind study vs. placebo].
A double-blind study was performed to evaluate carbamazepine for the prophylaxis of benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome in elderly patients--a controversial subject despite the extensive use of such drugs in old age. Thirty-six outpatients aged > or = 60 yrs suffering from general anxiety disorders and benzodiazepine abuse underwent gradual discontinuation of benzodiazepine therapy in two groups, one treated with carbamazepine and one with placebo. The carbamazepine-treated group demonstrated a lower incidence of withdrawal symptoms rated according to the Physician Withdrawal Check List (p < 0.01), better results with the Hopkins Symptom Check List (Covi cluster, p < 0.01) and a more markedly reduced score with the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (p < 0.05). Only 3 out of 18 patients in said group complained of side effects attributable to carbamazepine, which disappeared at lower dosages.
Di Costanzo
E
E
Servizio Psichiatrico, USSL 12 Sinistra Piave, Conegliano, Treviso.
Rovea
A
A
D000368:Aged; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D001569:Benzodiazepines / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002220:Carbamazepine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010919:Placebos / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology
D010919:Placebos; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D002220:Carbamazepine
La profilassi della sindrome di astinenza da benzodiazepine nell'anziano: l'efficacia della carbamazepina. Uno studio in doppio cieco con placebo.