Use of benzodiazepines and the risk of falls in the elderly

Abstract

The aging of the world population increases every year, this process leads to the decline of physiological functions that can lead to various diseases and, consequently, the use of more medicines by the elderly public. However, the consumption of drugs can cause some undesirable problems that are sometimes not correlated with their use, such as the increased risk of falls resulting from the use of benzodiazepines. In this context, the study aimed to investigate the relationship between the use of benzodiazepines and the increase in falls in the elderly. To this end, a literature review was carried out in the Google Scholar, VHL, Scielo, PubMed, Medline and LILACS databases, selecting works in Portuguese and English published between 2011 and 2021. 7 articles were selected, 5 with Brazilian research , 1 in Japan and 1 in the Middle East. The results showed that the use of this class of drugs requires caution, especially in the elderly, as they may remain in the body longer, favoring the increase in side effects and falls, even in a hospital environment. Thus, a better assessment of the risk/benefit of the drug is suggested and, when its use is necessary, preference should be given to short-acting drugs. Thus, it is understood the importance of carrying out a good evaluation and monitoring of the elderly who use this type of medication, in order to guarantee a better quality of life, without extensive complications arising from falls and falls due to the use of medications.