[Factors associated with benzodiazepines dependence in insomnia patients].

Abstract

Background: The use of benzodiazepines as a treatment for insomnia can have side effects such as impaired coordination causing falls in adults and even dependence.

Objective: To assess the factors associated with dependence on benzodiazepines in patients with insomnia.

Methods: Observational, cross-sectional, prospective, and analytical study, at the first level of care. Patients older than 18 years with a diagnosis of insomnia and a benzodiazepine prescription were selected. The dependency was measured with the International Neuropsychiatric Interview.

Results: 107 patients were included. Median age 67 years, predominantly female (72%), 74% attended secondary school or more, 71% had more than 3 years of diagnosis, 84% used clonazepam. The 54% presented dependency. In the bivariate analysis, schooling RM 0.392 (95%CI: 0.15-0.96) p = 0.038, moderate and severe clinical insomnia RM 3.618 (95%CI: 1.44-9.08) p = 0.005 and more than 3 years of diagnosis RM 2.428 (95%CI: 1.03-5.71) p = 0.040. In the multivariate model, schooling (p = 0.084), years of diagnosis (p = 0.062) and frequency of consumption (p = 0.065) obtained an R2 of 0.13.

Conclusions: Primary schooling showed a lower risk of presenting dependence on benzodiazepines. The risk was increased in those with more than 3 years of diagnosis, and in those with moderate and severe insomnia.