Benzodiazepine Prescribing and Recognition of a Substance Use Disorder

Benzodiazepine Prescribing and Recognition of a Substance Use Disorder is organized by NurseCe4less.

Statement of Learning Need:
Clinicians need to know about the risks to patients who are prescribed benzodiazepines, especially patients who are chronic users of these drugs. These risks may include the development of a chemical craving for benzodiazepines and potentially for a substance use disorder. Recognition of a substance use disorder, levels of severity and the need to initiate recommended treatment are important to avoid dangerous symptoms of withdrawal and to begin safe and appropriate medical support and therapy during the various phases of chemical detoxification and recovery.

Course Purpose:
To provide health professionals with knowledge of the benefits and risks associated with benzodiazepine use, and the need for adequate monitoring and follow-up of patients prescribed these drugs to avoid the potential development of a substance use disorder.

Course Summary:
Benzodiazepines have been widely prescribed for a variety of conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, psychiatric emergencies, and seizures. Neuro-inhibitory processes take place with the use of benzodiazepines, and patients need to be advised of both the benefit and risks of drug use. Special attention should be given to vulnerable populations such as the elderly when prescribing benzodiazepines. Chronic use of these drugs may lead to chemical craving and the development of a substance use disorder. Because of this risk, patients who are prescribed benzodiazepines require adequate monitoring and follow-up to avoid the misuse of these drugs. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) a benzodiazepine use disorder is generally regarded as a sedative-hypnotic-anxiolytic use disorder and is assigned a corresponding International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 code based on the DSM-5 level of severity. Levels of benzodiazepine use and treatment for the development of a substance use disorder are discussed.