Comparison of Long-Term Benzodiazepine Users in Three Settings

Most studies of chronic benzodiazepine users consider selected populations which may be unrepresentative. This study was undertaken to examine possible differences between groups. Subjects chosen were benzodiazepine users in general practice, a hospital clinic, and attending TRANX trials. Descriptive data were collected on characteristics and outcome. TRANX trial patients had the best outcome (P = 0.027). Hospital cases used high doses of anxiolytic benzodiazepines; concomitant mental disorder, including schizophrenia, was common. General practice cases were older and mainly used hypnotics (P < 0.05). Because groups of benzodiazepine users are different, there cannot be one single management approach. Cases require individual medical assessment.