Benzodiazepines: Risks, Realities, and Recovery Challenges
Episode Overview
Benzodiazepine prescriptions can increase the risk of drug overdose in young adults. Access to effective treatments like methadone and buprenorphine is often hindered by stigma and policies. Patients leaving hospitals against medical advice face significant risks. The 'War on Recovery' series highlights barriers in addiction treatment. Comparative analysis shows higher overdose risks with benzodiazepines compared to SSRIs.
It's kind of disheartening with all that work we've done and how much we've evolved that we're still not getting the outcomes that we wish
Ever wondered about the risks associated with benzodiazepine prescriptions for anxiety and depression? In this episode of Addiction Medicine Journal Club, Dr. John Keenan and Dr. Sonia del Trudici dive into the study by Bushnell GA et al., which explores the connection between benzodiazepine treatment and drug overdose risk in young adults. They chat about the alarming statistics and share their personal experiences with prescribing these medications.
You'll also hear about the broader issues in addiction medicine, including the challenges faced by patients trying to access effective treatments like methadone and buprenorphine. The hosts discuss the controversial 'War on Recovery' series from STAT News and highlight the struggles of patients leaving hospitals against medical advice. Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone interested in understanding addiction medicine better, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
Don't miss out on this eye-opening discussion that sheds light on the complexities of treating anxiety and depression with benzodiazepines.