Keywords
Elderly
Polypharmacy in the elderly
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Abstract
Objective: To analyze the risk of abusive use of benzodiazepines in the elderly population. Bibliographical review: The behavioral determinants of the risk of abuse and dependence on benzodiazepines, based on their pharmacological action, should be brought into the light of discussion among health professionals. Self-medication abuse and prescriptions have increased in the elderly population, contributing to a greater number of falls. Other important factors should be observed, such as the presence of comorbidities - a context in which conditions such as anxiety and depression reach higher rates -, because, in parallel, there are other pharmacological treatment options. Conclusion: It is important to monitor this population, which, in addition to using other drugs for their chronic conditions, also uses benzodiazepines in an uncontrolled manner, increasing the risk of falls and fractures, as well as causing decreased attention, higher amnesia occurrence and postural instability. Therefore, when it is possible, benzodiazepines should be encouraged and sought to be replaced by alternative and pharmacological therapies.
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