Cognitive effects of benzodiazepine use: A review

Benzodiazepines are among the most widely prescribed psychotropic drugs in the world. According to the Drug Utilisation Subcommittee (1999) in 2001 almost 7 million prescriptions were dispensed through pharmacies in Australia alone (excluding in-patient hospital prescribing). Benzodiazepines are widely used to treat anxiety, insomnia and panic disorder. The existing literature examining the possible effects of long-term use of these drugs yields conflicting results. This paper reviews the available research on short- and long-term effects of benzodiazepines, focusing on the cognitive effects of long-term use. Evidence from studies employing CT scanning methods and studies investigating cognitive improvement following discontinuation are briefly reviewed. Implications for future responsible prescription of benzodiazepines are discussed.