While the introduction of benzodiazepines was rightly welcomed given their enhanced safety profile relative to barbiturates, their use has come under increased scrutiny as evidence of potential risks has accumulated. In this activity, we will first review the epidemiology of benzodiazepine prescribing—to whom are they prescribed and why? Next, we will review the available evidence about both the risks associated with and evidence base supporting their use, including available evidence focused specifically on those with serious mental illness. Finally, we will consider the approach to deprescribing a benzodiazepine when clinicians and patients have decided this is the appropriate course.
Format
Recorded webinar, non-interactive, self-paced distance learning activity with post-test.
This presentation was recorded on March 5, 2021.
Learning Objectives
Describe basic epidemiology of benzodiazepine use.
Identify most common indications for and risks of use, including evidence specifically related to those with serious mental illness.
Outline an approach to tapering a benzodiazepine.
Outline
- Introduction and Learning Objectives
- Epidemiology of Benzodiazepine Use
- Risks Associated with Benzodiazepines
- Evidence for Common Indications
- Benzodiazepines in Serious Mental Illness
- Tapering Protocols & Examples
Target Audience
Psychiatrist, Physician (Non-Psychiatric), Physician Assistant, Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Pharmacist
Instruction Level
Intermediate
Estimated Time to Complete
Estimated Duration: 1.0 hour
Program Start Date: July 30, 2025
Program End Date: July 30, 2028
Ongoing Interdisciplinary Discussion Board
After completing the course, engage with colleagues in the mental health field through the Webinar Roundtable Topics discussion board. This is an easy way to network and share ideas with other clinicians who participate in this webinar. Access through the discussion tab.
How to Earn Credit
After completing the evaluation, participants will have the opportunity to claim their hours of participation and download the appropriate certificate. Physicians may obtain an official CME certificate, other healthcare professionals may receive a CE certificate (as applicable), and all other attendees may generate a certificate of participation. Each certificate will reflect the event date and total hours earned.
Continuing Education Credit
In support of improving patient care, American Psychiatric Association (APA) is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
Physicians
The APA designates this live event for a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Faculty and Planner Disclosures
The American Psychiatric Association adheres to the ACCME's Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Medical Education. Any individuals in a position to control the content of a CME activity - including faculty, planners, reviewers, or others - are required to disclose all relevant financial relationships with ineligible entities (commercial interests). All relevant conflicts of interest have been mitigated prior to the commencement of the activity.
Faculty
- Donovan Maust, MD, is a geriatric psychiatrist at University of Michigan and VA Ann Arbor with two primary research interests. First, he is exploring the determinants and outcomes of potentially inappropriate psychotropic prescribing to older adults, with a particular focus on benzodiazepines. In addition, he is interested in the factors that drive overuse of medical services by older adults with dementia. Dr. Maust reports no financial relationships with commercial interests.
Program Planners
- Teri Brister, PhD, LPC, National Alliance on Mental Illness. Reports no financial relationships with commercial interests.
- Tristan Gorrindo, MD, American Psychiatric Association. Reports no financial relationships with commercial interests.
Reviewers
- Teri Brister, PhD, LPC, National Alliance on Mental Illness. Reports no financial relationships with commercial interests. (Reviewed on 1/9/2024)
- John Torous, MD, MBI, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Reports no financial relationships with commercial interests. (Reviewed on 1/9/2024
Accessibility for Participants with Disabilities
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Technical Requirements
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