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Introduction

Benzodiazepine use disorder involves a pattern of problematic use of benzodiazepines, a class of medications primarily used for their sedative, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties.  Benzodiazepines can be obtained by prescription or illegally and are associated with a high risk for misuse.  Long-term use of benzodiazepines may result in tolerance, and, if abruptly discontinued, life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.

Epidemiology and risk factors

The estimated lifetime prevalence of benzodiazepine use disorder is <1%.  Benzodiazepine misuse (use without a prescription) is more common, with an estimated 12-month prevalence of 1.3% among adults.

Several factors increase the risk for developing benzodiazepine use disorder, including a history of receiving a prescription for a benzodiazepine, a personal and/or family history of substance use disorders, comorbid psychiatric conditions (bipolar I disorder, panic disorder, antisocial personality disorder, severe insomnia), a lower level of education, and impulsivity.

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