This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a comprehensive, multicomponent intervention utilizing education and support for Benzodiazepines withdrawal compared to standard care.
The excessive use of benzodiazepines (BZDs) presents significant health concerns and high healthcare costs, particularly in Spain, where usage rates are among the highest globally. In Andalusian, over a 10% of the population use BZDs long-term, prompting the need for safe and effective reduction strategies. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a comprehensive, multicomponent intervention utilizing education and support for BZD withdrawal compared to standard care. The intervention involved educational discussions, consultations with health professionals, and letters supported by multiple scientific societies.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
HEALTH_SERVICES_RESEARCH
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
472
Comprehensive, multicomponent intervention utilizing education and support for benzodiazepines. Family doctor, nurse, community pharmacist and social workers: carried out informative discussion with the patient with by providing educational material. They informed patients about the advantages, disadvantages and alternatives to benzodiazepines including a descending benzodiazepines schedule to minimize withdrawal symptoms. It briefly explained the professionals' concerns about the continued use of benzodiazepines and offers possible solutions. If the patient requested a withdrawal, he/she was referred to the doctor.
Ingrid Ferrer López
Seville, Spain
Number of dispensing of benzodiazepines.
Number of dispensing of benzodiazepines, measured at the level of the participant.
Time frame: 3.5 years
Knowledge
Knowledge: Empower questionary, measured at the level of the participant.
Time frame: 6 months
Life Quality
Quality of life:Functional Status Measurement Sheets by coop World Organisation of Family Doctors (COOP/ WONCA): The six COOP-WONCA Charts are described by vignettes and measured at the level of the participant: physical fitness, feelings, daily activities, social activities, change in health and overall health. WONCA: World Organisation of Family Doctors
Time frame: 6 months
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