O uso indiscriminado de benzodiazepínicos: uma análise crítica das práticas de prescrição na atenção básica em saúde da família

Abstract

Benzodiazepines are among the most prescribed drugs in the world. Although there is no evidence of epidemic of use or abuse, we find a substantial consumption of these products among users of health services. Because of the wide margin of safety provided, benzodiazepines are often used indiscriminately, beyond to its therapeutic indications and for a long time, which may favor the development of dependence. In this work we have investigate, through a literary review, the major studies about the excessive and indiscriminate use of benzodiazepines in primary health care, selecting papers between 1999 to 2011. The results amains there is a higher prevalence of use among the female population and in developing countries, the first prescription by clinicians and not psychiatrists, and even lack of information about the collateral effects of these medications. We discuss some criteria for a more rational prescription of these drugs, avoiding the possible risks of dependence and withdrawal syndrome.