Understanding Benzodiazepines: Therapeutic Roles, Risks, and Real-World Trends.

Abstract

In this chapter, we will discuss the clinical utility and growing public health concern surrounding benzodiazepines, a widely prescribed class of medications used for anxiety, seizures, insomnia, and sedation. While effective, benzodiazepines pose significant risks when misused, especially when combined with other substances and central nervous system depressants like opioids. This article reviews the history of benzodiazepines, in addition to their mechanism of action. It also examines current epidemiological data, showing misuse rates in the United States in addition to demographic factors. Psychiatric and other factors that drive misuse such as overprescription are explored.