Risk of sleeping pills with benzodiazepines

500,000 Germans dependent on sleeping pills

05/19/2014

Many Germans suffer from sleep disorders. Although the use of sleeping pills can provide relief in the short term, long-term use of sleeping pills and sedatives from the benzodiazepine group is likely to result in significant side effects and the development of addiction, warns the Federal Chamber of Pharmacists.

With the model project „Outpatient withdrawal of benzodiazepine-dependent patients in collaboration of pharmacist and family doctor“, which is funded by the Federal Ministry of Health, is intended to show those affected a way, „how she with the help of her pharmacist and family doctor the outpatient withdrawal within a few weeks“ create, reports the Federal Chamber of Pharmacists. According to the data of the Federal Chamber of Pharmacists are „more than one million Germans dependent on sleep and sedatives.“ An exit on your own succeed rarely.

Risks of sleeping pills many Germans are not aware of
In particular „Sleep aids are often taken for years without the patients being aware of the risks“, explained Dr. Andreas Kiefer, President of the Federal Chamber of Pharmacists, and added: „There is a need for action here.“ Although the medicines from the group of benzodiazepines are effective and safe medications when used as intended. However, prolonged use carries the risk of dependency and unwanted side effects, such as „Falls due to the muscle-relaxing effect as well as the reduced perception and responsiveness.“ In addition, dependence on benzodiazepines may affect memory, inhibit emotional sensitivity and promote social isolation.

Model project shows ways out of dependence
According to the Federal Chamber of Pharmacists, the model project, the results of which were presented in Berlin today „Pharmacists from 46 local pharmacies and 63 family doctors.“ A total of 102 patients were advised by pharmacists in consultation with their family doctor. The average age of the patients was 71 years and the majority were women. After going through the model project would have „About half of the patients (46 percent) completely abstain from sleeping pills“ can and „another 28 percent could reduce the dose.“ Only a few participants had relapsed. Overall, the model project was a considerable success.

Consult a doctor or pharmacist about active ingredients of sleeping pills
In order to be able to assess the risk of dependency, the pharmacy or doctor should inquire whether the respective agent belongs to the benzodiazepines. If they suspect an already existing addiction, the experts do not recommend simply discontinuing the medication on their own, because of complaints such as anxiety, depression and muscle twitching or trembling. Here, according to Dr. Andreas Kiefer with medical assistance a dosing plan be created. He advises relatives and close friends of those who may be affected not to approach the issue too offensively, but rather to seek their own personal involvement in the conversation. Difficulties in dealing with the benzodiazepine addicts, such as due to limited attention, could be used to get started here.

Sleeping pills exclusively as a last resort
Overall, though sleeping pills provide a simple and convenient way to resolve sleep disorders, prolonged use poses significant risks. Therefore, for example, the German Society for Sleep Research and Sleep Medicine advises to use the medication - if at all - only for a strictly limited period and in the lowest dosage. In addition, sleeping pills should remain the last option, since in most cases, other measures, such as strict sleep hygiene, can achieve significantly more without risking the possible side effects. (Fp)