Benzodiazepines and Z-drugs may cause prolonged cognitive issues in young adults – are hypnotics not only a geriatric dilemma?

The risks of benzodiazepines (BZDs) in the elderly are well known. BZD use has been associated with increased risks of fallings, fractures, disabilities of mobility, deteriorated activities of daily living, traffic accidents, chemical restraining and mortality [1-6]. Moreover, acute psychocognitive and motor complications related to BZDs have been shown in short-term, randomized, controlled trials [7]. In addition, the newer ‘Z-drugs’ such as zopiclone, zolpidem or zolpidem have not been shown to be better than conventional BZDs [8].
Source: Sleep Medicine - Category: Sleep Medicine Authors: Source Type: research