Estudo sobre o uso de benzodiazepínicos em idosos

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the consumption of benzodiazepines, which are important drugs and are among the best-selling anxiolytics in the world, to show that despite good adherence and low toxicity, they are still contraindicated for the elderly, especially among the elderly, risks and drug interactions, dependence , suspension, among others. Data shows us that its high consumption is related to an increase in psychological disorders. The elderly population presents greater changes in pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. The survey through a questionnaire brought data for greater understanding, drug interactions, risks and difficulties in weaning. For this research, 82 people were interviewed through a questionnaire with 18 questions, of which 40 elderly people were interviewed in the questionnaire, 20% of whom were men and 80% women, 45.7% do not have a paid job and 54.3% have a paid job, 43.2% did not use benzodiazepines and 56.8 did. Regarding which medication was used, 8.6% bromazepam, 8.6% alprazolan, 17.1% others, 28.6% clonazepam and 37.1% diazepam. Regarding treatment time, 8.6% less than 8 weeks, 25.7% more than 5 years, 28.6% more than 1 year, 37.1% take it only when necessary. Regarding the question regarding indication, 5.7% were friends and 94.3% were doctors. For the question about what purpose it takes, 5.7% nervousness, 8.6% others, 40% insomnia and 42.9% anxiety. If used with other medications, 38.2% only this one and 58.8% between 2 and 5 medications. Of those interviewed, 11.4% tried to stop taking it a few times, 17.1% tried and were unable to stop, 25.7% stopped on the first attempt and 45.7% never tried to stop and 45.7% of those interviewed took it in a regular. In conclusion, the research observed the difficulty in weaning, the risk of drug interactions, most of which are medical indications, drawing attention to the need for an appropriate protocol for use.

Keywords: Benzodiazepines, elderly people and drug interactions.