Prevalence and Trends of Concurrent Opioid Analgesic and Benzodiazepine Use Among Veterans Affairs Patients with Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder, 2003–2011

ConclusionDespite known risks associated with prescribing opioids and benzodiazepines concurrently, the adjusted prevalence of long‐term concurrent use rose significantly among men and women with PTSD in VISN20 over a 9‐year period. Common use of these medications among patients with high‐risk conditions suggests comprehensive strategies are needed to identify and monitor patients at increased risk for adverse outcomes.

Source: Pain Medicine - August 1, 2015 Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Eric J. Hawkins, Carol A. Malte, Joel R. Grossbard, Andrew J. Saxon Tags: Original Source Type: research