Benzodiazepine dependence
Harmful drinking of benzodiazepines ( before the introduction of ICD -10, the latest version of the diagnostic classification system of the World Health Organization ( WHO): Abuse of benzodiazepines ) is that consumption of anxiolytic and sedative drugs referred to, which leads to physical or mental health impairment. This consumption of benzodiazepines may, but need not lead to dependence. However, an isolated harmful use ( without concurrent dependence) is rare here, and even more rarely leads to the desire for treatment. On the other hand, may be with benzodiazepines even at therapeutic doses, so the intended dose, after a relatively short period of time develop a severe physical dependence, which is characterized by no dosage increase, so can the dependence criteria of the WHO fully applied. This form of dependence is also spoken by a "low dose dependency ".
When health effects are mentioned:
- Disorders of memory function ( amnestic disorders), particularly at high doses and in rapidly anflutenden substances ( such as alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, and flunitrazepam )
- Behavioral disorders in combination with alcohol (even small amounts ),
- Paradoxical effects with the increase of anxiety and / or sleep under medication
- Psychomotor retardation with increased risk of accidents, especially in the elderly and when using long-acting substances.
The general guidelines for therapeutic use of benzodiazepines be unchanged, that these drugs in a clear indication (that is clearly justified ) should be given in the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible period of time and not for longer than a few weeks.