The Current Role of Long-Term Benzodiazepines for the Treatment of Generalized Anxiety
Abstract
Benzodiazepines are one of the most widely used medications for the treatment of generalized anxiety. Due to their quick onset of action, efficacy and tolerability, benzodiazepines are widely prescribed by clinicians and utilized by patients. Although benzodiazepines have been beneficial and effective for the short-term management of anxiety, they have not been shown to be effective in producing long-term improvement. Chronic use of benzodiazepines has demonstrated multiple side effects including cognitive impairment, decreased motor coordination, concentration, social phobia, and depression. The development of tolerance, dependence and withdrawal are some of most significant problems associated with the long-term use of benzodiazepines. Withdrawal associated with the use of benzodiazepines includes insomnia, agitation, anxiety, seizures and coma.References
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Accepted 2014-12-08
Published 2015-01-05
