Feasibility of discontinuing chronic benzodiazepine use in nursing home residents: a pilot study

摘要: Guidelines discourage chronic benzodiazepines and related Z drugs (BZD/Zs) for sleep problems. However, prevalence among nursing home residents remains high. Discontinuing these is widely recommended but seems difficult to implement. The aim of our study was evaluate the overall feasibility in home, terms willingness towards discontinuation success rate at 8 months, together with impact on withdrawal symptoms, change quality, quality life medication use. In a convenience sample five homes (823 residents), we included cognitively competent BZD/Z use insomnia. We investigated [with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)], (EQ-5D) symptoms [Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Symptom Questionnaire (BWSQ)]. Success analysed survival analysis. Of 135 eligible residents, both general physician (GP) resident were willing initiate 38 residents. Reasons refusing GPs unmotivated patient reluctance change. At 66.0 % successful discontinuers, subjective PSQI component evolving favourably (p = 0.013) decreasing number midnight awakenings (p = 0.041). relapse group (n = 13), decreased (p = 0.012), mainly an increase problems activities pain/discomfort. groups, functionality did not Discontinuation feasible setting without noticeable switch use, detrimental effect positive self-perceived quality.