Should we exercise caution with benzodiazepine use in patients with COPD?

Benzodiazepines are agents that enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter c-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the GABAA receptor, resulting in sedative, hypnotic, sleep-inducing, anxiolytic, euphoric, anticonvulsant and muscle-relaxant properties [1]. These properties make benzodiazepines useful in managing anxiety, insomnia, agitation, seizures, muscle spasms and alcohol withdrawal, and as a pre-medication for medical procedures. Benzodiazepines are categorized as short-, intermediateor long-acting. In general, benzodiazepines are safe and effective in the short term but the elderly are at an increased risk of suffering from both shortand long-term adverse effects.