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Benzodiazepine Use Linked to Increased Risk of Dementia

Subheadline

A recent study has found that people who use benzodiazepines, a class of drugs commonly prescribed for anxiety and sleep problems, are at an increased risk of developing dementia.

Key Findings

The study, which was published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, found that people who used benzodiazepines were twice as likely to develop dementia than those who did not use the drugs.

The risk of dementia was even higher for people who used benzodiazepines for long periods of time or at high doses.

Why is this Important?

Dementia is a serious condition that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the leading cause of disability in older adults.

The findings of this study suggest that benzodiazepine use may be a contributing factor to the development of dementia.

What Should You Do?

If you are taking benzodiazepines, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the drugs.

You may want to consider reducing your dose or stopping taking the drugs altogether.