Addiction, Author Interviews, JAMA, Mental Health Research, University of Michigan / 10.09.2018
Larger Number of Benzodiazepine Pills in Initial Prescription Associated With Long Term Use
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Lauren B. Gerlach, D.O.
Clinical Lecturer
Department of Psychiatry
University of Michigan
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: In this study we used data from the Supporting Seniors Receiving Treatment and Intervention or SUSTAIN program. The program provides a supplement to a Pennsylvania medication coverage program for low-income older adults. It provides behavioral health and case management services by phone across the state. This included detailed interviews to screen for mental health issues including anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and pain, as well as analysis of prescription records and other clinical data.
Among older adults prescribed a new benzodiazepine prescription by a non-psychiatric provider, we determined how many then went on to long-term use of the medication and what patient and clinical characteristics predicted long-term use over the following year.
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