Benzodiazepine use and pharmacotherapy safety in individuals with depressive disorder receiving care at a Psychosocial Care Center: a cross-sectional study

• Grant number: 26/14079-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2026
• End date: September 30, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy
• Principal Investigator: Marcela Forgerini
• Grantee: Lyzandra Priscila Puga
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCFAR). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Araraquara. Araraquara , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are widely used as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of depressive disorders. However, long-term use of these medications may be associated with dependence, cognitive impairment, and other medication safety concerns. Despite these risks, studies evaluating patterns of BZD use and comprehensive medication reviews among individuals with depressive disorders receiving care in specialized mental health services remain limited. Objective: To conduct a medication review and characterize BZD use among individuals with depressive disorders receiving care at the Psychosocial Care Center II (CAPS-II) in the municipality of Araraquara. Methodology: A cross-sectional study will be conducted at CAPS-II, including individuals diagnosed with depressive disorders who are receiving at least one medication for the treatment of their condition. Sociodemographic, clinical, and pharmacotherapeutic variables will be collected through the review of multidisciplinary medical records. The medication review will include assessment of medications in use, dosage, administration regimen, duration of treatment, therapeutic indication, and prior medication history. Long-term BZD use, polypharmacy, potential drug-drug interactions, and potentially inappropriate medications for older adults according to the Beers Criteria will also be evaluated. Potential associations between BZD use and clinical and sociodemographic characteristics will be investigated using univariate and multivariable logistic regression models. Expected results: The findings are expected to contribute to a better understanding of BZD utilization patterns and to support the optimization of pharmacotherapeutic care in specialized mental health services. (AU)