Predictors of relapse after discontinuation of long-term benzodiazepine use by minimal intervention: a 2-year follow-up study

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Title:	Predictors of relapse after discontinuation of long-term benzodiazepine use by minimal intervention: a 2-year follow-up study
Author(s):	Oude Voshaar, R.C. ; Gorgels, W.J.M.J. ; Mol, A.J.J. ; Balkom, A.J.L.M. van ; Breteler, M.H.M. ; Lisdonk, E.H. van de ; Mulder, J. ; Zitman, F.G.
Publication year:	2003
Source:	Family Practice, vol. 20, iss. 3, (2003), pp. 370-372
ISSN:	0263-2136
DOI:	https://doi.org/10.1093/fampra/cmg405
Publication type:	Article / Letter to editor
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item : https://hdl.handle.net/2066/63163
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Subject:	Experimental Psychopathology and Treatment
Organization:	SW OZ BSI KLP
Journal title:	Family Practice
Volume:	vol. 20
Issue:	iss. 3
Page start:	p. 370
Page end:	p. 372
Abstract:	Background. Long-term results of minimal intervention strategies to cut down benzodiazepine use are not available. Objective. To evaluate the relapse rate over a two-year period and to search for predictors of relapse among patients who quit benzodiazepine use after receiving a discontinuation letter. Methods. Baseline assessment and prospective monitoring of the medical records of 109 patients who quit long-term benzodiazepine use after a minimal intervention strategy in general practice. Results. After 819 ± 100 days of follow-up, 53 (49%) patients had remained completely abstinent. Two independent predictors of relapse were identified by Cox regression analysis: use of more than 10 mg diazepam equivalent (RR = 2.4 [1.2 – 4.7]) and poor general health perception (RR = 0.98 [0.97 – 0.99]). Conclusion. Short-term success rates after a minimal intervention were maintained well during long-term follow-up. High-dose users have the highest risk of relapse.