Benzodiazepine research: current findings and practical consequences.
The recent research literature on the effects of benzodiazepines is reviewed, with special emphasis on findings relevant for the practising clinician. The mode of action, patterns of use and abuse potential of benzodiazepines are discussed. The evidence on the risks of dependency and possible drawbacks of long-term use are examined. The possible effects of benzodiazepine use on psychological treatments are also examined, and factors that should be considered while treating benzodiazepine users are discussed.
Hayward
P
P
Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, University of London, UK.
Wardle
J
J
Higgitt
A
A
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000209:etiology
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D001569:Benzodiazepines