Benzodiazepine use may increase risk for dementia

Chinese adults with dementia had a higher cumulative dose of benzodiazepines, compared with peers without dementia, according to research presented at the American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting.

“Dementia constitutes a growing health burden globally. Benzodiazepine use has been reported to be associated with dementia. However, there is a lack of study on relationship between the dosages and subtypes of the benzodiazepine and dementia in Chinese population,” the researchers wrote.

To assess associations between benzodiazepine use and dementia diagnosis, researchers conducted a case-control study among 91 individuals with dementia and 189 controls aged 65 years and older. Minimum follow-up was 6 years.

Basic demographics and comorbidities were similar, though participants with dementia had higher rates of cerebrovascular disease and depression.

Cumulative benzodiazepine dosages were higher among participants with dementia, who had at least 1,096 prescribed daily doses, compared with controls (59.3% vs. 44%; P = .02).

However, subtype of benzodiazepine — whether long- or short-acting — was not significantly associated with development of dementia.

Multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated cumulative benzodiazepine dosages (OR = 1.71; 95% CI, 1.02-2.89; P = .04) and cerebrovascular disease (OR = 2.47; 95% CI, 1.46-4.18; P = .001) were independent risk factors for dementia.

“High cumulative dose of benzodiazepines is associated with the development of dementia in Chinese patients in the long run. The drug should be prescribed with caution. Moreover, features of dementia should be noted in elderly patients with benzodiazepine use for early diagnosis and management,” the researchers concluded. – by Amanda Oldt

Reference:

Chan T, et al. Use of benzodiazepines and risk of dementia: A retrospective case-control study. Presented at: American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting; April 15-21, 2016; Vancouver, British Columbia.

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.