title: Benzodiazepines - Their role in aggression and why GPs should prescribe with caution.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Benzodiazepines are widely prescribed in Australia, despite concerns about their potential for abuse and dependence. Paradoxical reactions, disinhibition and amnesia are all associated with benzodiazepine use, misuse and intoxication. While violent and aggressive behaviour may be a consequence of such disinhibition, there is limited information available regarding the links between benzodiazepine use and violence.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This article aims to examine the existing evidence on the relationship between benzodiazepines, violence and aggression.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  While current evidence suggests that benzodiazepines rarely induce violence, it is important to note that the available literature is limited in its scope and that benzodiazepine related violence is often severe and of potential concern to frontline workers. Mediating risk factors for benzodiazepine related violence include concurrent alcohol use, benzodiazepine dose, a history of aggression and underlying impulsivity. Comprehensive assessment and alternate nonpharmacological treatment options should be considered before prescribing benzodiazepines within primary care.
authors: Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre, Eastern Health and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
authors: Katy A
authors: KA
authors: Jones
authors: Suzanne
authors: S
authors: Nielsen
authors: Raimondo
authors: R
authors: Bruno
authors: Matthew
authors: M
authors: Frei
authors: Dan I
authors: DI
authors: Lubman
mesh_terms: D000374:Aggression / Q000187:drug effects*; D001315:Australia / Q000453:epidemiology; D001569:Benzodiazepines / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D055553:Prescription Drugs; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D014754:Violence
chemical_list: D055553:Prescription Drugs; D001569:Benzodiazepines