OBJECTIVE To analyse sex differences among recipients of benzodiazepines in Dutch general practice. DESIGN Study of consultations and associated interventions as recorded in the Dutch national survey of general practice. SETTING Practices of 45 general practitioners monitored during 1 April to 30 June 1987. SUBJECTS 61,249 patients (29,035 (47.4%) men in the age groups 19-44, 45-64, and 6...

BACKGROUND Benzodiazepines are a widely used medication in developed countries, particularly among elderly patients. However, benzodiazepines are known to affect memory and cognition and might thus enhance the risk of dementia. The objective of this review is to synthesize evidence from observational studies that evaluated the association between benzodiazepines use and dementia risk. SUMMARY...

QUESTIONS UNDER STUDY In many countries newer non-benzodiazepines, zolpidem and zopiclone ("Z-drugs"), are prescribed instead of benzodiazepine hypnotics. This is not supported by current evidence and guidelines. The aim of this study was to compare the perceptions of GPs on the benefits and harms of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs. METHODS A questionnaire was mailed to a random sample of 1,350 G...