Association between Benzodiazepines Use in Elderly and Fall Risk

Background: Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depression drugs used for several conditions such as seizures, sleep disorders, and have been associated with falls. We identified an increased risk of falls and their related injuries in the elderly due to benzodiazepines usage.

Objective: The study aims to assess the association between Benzodiazepines use in the elderly and fall risk.

Results: Falls are more common among elderly Benzodiazepine users compared to non-users and younger people with less usage. The use of Benzodiazepines is increasing with age; 8.7% in 65–80-year-olds compared to 2.6% among 18-35-year-olds. Long-term Benzodiazepine use among the elderly is seen in around 12.5% of the population and is associated with an increase in fall frequency.

Conclusion: It is not clear if the association of Benzodiazepines with falls vary with different products and combinations, usage, and dosage. By assessing this we can identify the measures to reduce the falls.