Prevalence and Associated Factors of Benzodiazepine Use in Patients Attending a Community Mental Health Team in Scotland: A Cross-Sectional Survey

We aimed to assess the point prevalence and associated factors of Benzodiazepine (BZD) use in patients attending a Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) in Scotland.

This cross-sectional survey included 412 patients from the outpatient medical caseload over a three-month period in 2021. Patient records were reviewed to identify whether they were prescribed BZDs. The analysis aimed to determine the point prevalence rate of BZD use and compare characteristics between patients on and not on BZDs.

The point prevalence rate was 16%. There were no significant sex differences (p=0.10) between patients on and not on BZDs. However, statistically significant differences were observed in relation to age (p=0.003), primary diagnosis (p=0.03), and the number of psychotropic medications (p= <0.001). Only the number of psychotropic medications varied significantly between long and short-term BZD use (p=0.005). Those on long-term BZD use of one year or longer had a higher number of psychotropic medications.

Monitoring and comparing the prevalence rates of BZD prescription by CMHTs is essential for reducing adverse effects associated with BZDs. Such concerns can influence clinical practice and may sometimes lead to conflicts between secondary and primary care clinicians. This study involved only one CMHT in Scotland and, therefore, may not be fully representative of all CMHTs across the country.

A high number of psychotropic medications emerged as the only statistically significant factor associated with long-term BZD use. Consequently, diligent monitoring of BZD use is warranted in patients on a high number of psychotropic medications.