Posted by linkadge on September 11, 2014, at 17:24:40
In reply to Re: new study says benzos increase risk of alzheimers » SLS, posted by Phillipa on September 11, 2014, at 9:30:54
The study suggests that long term use of high dose benzodiazepines is associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's.
Lower doses used for shorter periods of time were not associated with alzheimers.
The big issue for me is the fact that elderly who require large doses of benzodiazepines may already be at elevated risk. I don't know if this risk can be fully accounted for.
Anxiety and agitation in elderly is an early sign of alzheimers. Can they really control for the risk associated with individuals whose anxiety is severe enough to warrant high doses?
If benzos are the only thing that works, take them. But if you can keep the dose as low as possible with adjuncts like magnesium, niacin, etc. then do so.
Linkadge
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URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20140815/msgs/1071031.html