BACKGROUND: Most studies of chronic benzodiazepine users consider selected populations which may be unrepresentative. This study was undertaken to examine possible differences between groups. METHOD: Subjects chosen were benzodiazepine users in general practice, a hospital clinic, and attending TRANX trials. Descriptive data were collected on characteristics and outcome. RESULTS: TRANX trial patients had the best outcome (P = 0.027). Hospital cases used high doses of anxiolytic benzodiazepines; concomitant mental disorder, including schizophrenia, was common. General practice cases were older and mainly used hypnotics (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Because groups of benzodiazepine users are different, there cannot be one single management approach. Cases require individual medical assessment.
BACKGROUND: Most studies of chronic benzodiazepine users consider selected populations which may be unrepresentative. This study was undertaken to examine possible differences between groups. METHOD: Subjects chosen were benzodiazepine users in general practice, a hospital clinic, and attending TRANX trials. Descriptive data were collected on characteristics and outcome. RESULTS: TRANX trial patients had the best outcome (P = 0.027). Hospital cases used high doses of anxiolytic benzodiazepines; concomitant mental disorder, including schizophrenia, was common. General practice cases were older and mainly used hypnotics (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Because groups of benzodiazepine users are different, there cannot be one single management approach. Cases require individual medical assessment.