From PhillyVoice · · 1m 20s
Benzodiazepine Prescriptions Drop 27%
Benzodiazepine prescriptions fell 27% from 2013 to 2024, researchers say.
In brief
Benzodiazepine prescriptions fell 27% from 2013 to 2024, researchers say. Benzodiazepine prescriptions dropped 27% between 2013 and 2024 due to stricter prescribing practices to prevent opioid mixing. Originally reported by PhillyVoice.
Benzodiazepine Prescriptions Drop
Benzodiazepine prescriptions fell 27% from 2013 to 2024, researchers say.
Decline Linked to Opioid Epidemic
Researchers say the drop may be caused by more restrictive prescribing practices to prevent mixing with opioids.
Benzodiazepines Include Xanax and Valium
Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that includes Xanax and Valium, used for anxiety.
Rutgers Study Published
The study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, analyzed 1 billion benzodiazepine prescription fills.
Steepest Drop Among Young Adults
The steepest drop in prescriptions came among people ages 18 to 29, with an average prescription drop of 18% per dose.
Benzodiazepines Risk Overdose
Mixing benzodiazepines with opioids or alcohol greatly increases overdose risk, according to FDA warnings.
Lead Author Notes Caution
Naomi Cruz, a recent doctoral student at Rutgers University and lead author, said prescribing practices became more cautious over the past decade.
Benzodiazepines Used for Mental Health
Benzodiazepines are prescribed for mental health conditions, insomnia, and seizure disorders.
What Happens Next
Ongoing research is needed to ensure patients receive the safest care while monitoring prescribing practices.
The takeaway
Benzodiazepine prescriptions dropped 27% between 2013 and 2024 due to stricter prescribing practices to prevent opioid mixing.
