Search

Background: Long-term use of benzodiazepine receptor agonists (BZRAs) is a persistent healthcare challenge and poses patient safety risks. Interventions underpinned by behaviour change theory are needed to support discontinuation of long-term BZRA use. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire based on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to examine mediators of behaviour change relating to the discontinuation of long-term BZRA use., Methods: An initial 52 item questionnaire was developed using the 14 domains of TDF version 2 and iteratively refined over two rounds. The questionnaire was disseminated online via online support groups that focused on BZRAs to community-based adults with either current or previous experience of taking BZRAs on a long-term basis (≥3 months). Confirmatory factor analysis was undertaken to assess the questionnaire's reliability, discriminant validity and goodness of fit. The Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR), Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) and Comparative Fit Index (CFI) were calculated., Results: Following an iterative process of adjustment, the results obtained from confirmatory factor analysis resulted in the final questionnaire consisting of 29 items across nine theoretical domains. The internal consistency reliability values across these domains ranged from 0.62 to 0.85. For the final model, the SRMR was 0.23, the RMSEA was 0.11 and the CFI was 0.6., Conclusions: The questionnaire offers a potential tool that could be used to identify domains that need to be targeted as part of a behaviour change intervention at an individual patient level. Further research is needed to assess the questionnaire's acceptability and usability, and to develop a scoring system so that domains can be prioritised and subsequently targeted as part of an intervention., (Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Benzodiazepine receptor agonists (BZRAs) are often prescribed for long-term use. However, guidelines recommend limiting prescriptions to short-term use (< 4 weeks) to reduce the risk of adverse effects and dependence. A recent systematic review reported that brief interventions targeting long-term BZRA use in primary care (e.g., short consultations, written letters to patients) were effective in helping patients to discontinue BZRA medication. However, the complexity of these interventions has not been examined in detail. This study aimed to apply the intervention Complexity Assessment Tool for Systematic Reviews (iCAT&#95;SR) to brief interventions targeting long-term BZRA use.  METHODS: Two reviewers independently assessed the interventions using the six core iCAT&#95;SR dimensions: organisational level/ category targeted, behaviour targeted, number of intervention components, degree of tailoring, skill level required by those delivering and receiving the intervention. The four optional iCAT&#95;SR dimensions were applied where possible. A scoring system was using to calculate a complexity score for each intervention. Pearson's correlations were used to assess the relationship between intervention complexity and effect size, as well as the relationship between intervention complexity and number of component behaviour change techniques (BCTs). Inter-rater reliability was calculated using Cohen's Kappa coefficient., Results: Four of the six core iCAT&#95;SR dimensions were applied to the interventions with high inter-rater reliability (Cohen's Kappa = 0.916). Application of the four optional dimensions was prevented by a lack of detail in study reports. Intervention complexity scores ranged from 8 to 11 (median: 11). There was no relationship detected between intervention complexity and either intervention effect size or number of component BCTs., Conclusions: This study adds to the literature on worked examples of the practical application of the iCAT&#95;SR. The findings highlight how more detailed reporting of interventions is needed in order to optimise the application of iCAT&#95;SR and its potential to differentiate between interventions across the full range of complexity dimensions. Further work is needed to establish the validity of applying a scoring system to iCAT&#95;SR assessments., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Purpose: To examine the impact of new controlled drugs legislation introduced in May 2017 on benzodiazepine receptor agonist (BZRA) prescribing in Ireland., Methods: A repeated cross-sectional analysis was conducted using publically available monthly pharmacy claims data from the General Medical Services (GMS) database. The study population comprised all GMS-eligible individuals aged ≥ 16 years from January 2016 to September 2019. Monthly prevalence rates of individuals receiving BZRA prescriptions per 10,000 eligible population were calculated and trends examined over time. Segmented linear regression of prevalence rates was used to examine changes before and after introduction of the legislation stratified by gender and age groups. Regression coefficients (β) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for monthly change were calculated., Results: Pre-legislation (January 2016 to April 2017), there was a significant monthly decline in benzodiazepine prevalence rate (β = - 1.18; 95% CI - 1.84, - 0.51; p < 0.001) but no significant change in Z-drug prescribing. Post-legislation (May 2017 to September 2019), increases in prevalence rates were observed for benzodiazepines (β = 1.04; 95% CI 0.17, 1.92; p = 0.021) and Z-drugs (β = 1.04; 95% CI 0.26, 1.83; p = 0.010). Post-legislation trends showed increases in BZRA prevalence rates among the youngest subgroup (16-44 years), with variable changes in the middle-aged subgroup (45-64 years) and no changes in the oldest subgroup (≥ 65 years)., Conclusions: This study indicates that introduction of new legislation had limited impact on BZRA prescribing on the main public health scheme in Ireland. Interventions targeting specific population subgroups may be required to achieve sustained reductions in prescribing.

Aims: To assess the effectiveness of brief interventions in primary care aimed at reducing or discontinuing long-term benzodiazepine/Z-drug (BZRA) use., Method: Systematic review of randomized controlled trials of brief interventions in primary care settings aimed at reducing or discontinuing long-term BZRA use in adults taking BZRAs for ≥ 3 months. Four electronic databases were searched: PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO and CENTRAL. The primary outcome was BZRA use, classified as discontinuation or reduction by ≥ 25%. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) was used to retrospectively code behavioural determinants targeted by the interventions. The Behaviour Change Technique (BCT) Taxonomy was used to identify the interventions' active components. Study-specific estimates were pooled, where appropriate, to yield summary risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Pearson's correlations were used to determine the relationship between intervention effect size and the results of both the TDF and BCT coding., Results: Eight studies were included (n = 2071 patients). Compared with usual care, intervention patients were more likely to have discontinued BZRA use at 6 months (eight studies, RR = 2.73, 95% CI = 1.84-4.06) and 12 months post-intervention (two studies, RR = 3.41, 95% CI = 2.22-5.25). TDF domains 'knowledge', 'memory, attention and decision processes', 'environmental context and resources' and 'social influences' were identified as having been included in every intervention. Commonly identified BCTs included 'information about health consequences', 'credible source' and 'adding objects to the environment'. There was no detectable relationship between effect size and the results of either the TDF or BCT coding., Conclusion: Brief interventions delivered in primary care are more effective than usual care in reducing and discontinuing long-term benzodiazepine/Z-drug use., (© 2020 Society for the Study of Addiction.)

Aims: The aim of this study was to examine prescribing trends for benzodiazepines and Z-drugs to General Medical Services (GMS) patients in Ireland., Methods: A repeated cross-sectional analysis of the national pharmacy claims database was conducted for GMS patients aged ≥16 years from 2005 to 2015. Prescribing rates per 1000 eligible GMS population were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Negative binomial regression was used to determine longitudinal trends and compare prescribing rates across years, gender and age groups. Duration of supply and rates of concomitant benzodiazepine and Z-drug prescribing were determined. Age (16-44, 45-64, ≥65 years) and gender trends were investigated., Results: Benzodiazepine prescribing rates decreased significantly from 225.92/1000 population (95% CI 224.94-226.89) in 2005 to 166.07/1000 population (95% CI 165.38-166.75) in 2015 (P < 0.0001). Z-drug prescribing rates increased significantly from 95.36/1000 population (95% CI 94.73-96.00) in 2005 to 109.11/1000 population (95% CI 108.56-109.67) in 2015 (P = 0.048). Approximately one-third of individuals dispensed either benzodiazepines or Z-drugs were receiving long-term prescriptions (>90 days). The proportion of those receiving >1 benzodiazepine and/or Z-drug concomitantly increased from 11.9% in 2005 to 15.3% in 2015. Benzodiazepine and Z-drug prescribing rates were highest for older women (≥65 years) throughout the study period., Conclusions: Benzodiazepine prescribing to the GMS population in Ireland decreased significantly from 2005 to 2015, and was coupled with significant increases in Z-drug prescribing. The study shows that benzodiazepine and Z-drug prescribing is common in this population, with high proportions of individuals receiving long-term prescriptions. Targeted interventions are needed to reduce potentially inappropriate long-term prescribing and use of these medications in Ireland., (© 2018 The British Pharmacological Society.)

Objective: To investigate the views and experiences of community pharmacists in Ireland regarding their role in benzodiazepine supply and the potential for role expansion., Methods: A postal questionnaire was issued to a random, geographically stratified sample of community pharmacies in Ireland., Key Findings: The response rate was 37.6%. Pharmacists' awareness of the national source of benzodiazepine guidelines was low (26.6% previously aware). Benzodiazepine prescriptions were frequently encountered in practice and commonly for extended durations of 28 days. Pharmacists' involvement in roles extending beyond dispensing was limited. In the 6 months prior to the questionnaire, fewer than half of pharmacists reported having suggested discontinuation to a patient (43.7%) or having contacted a prescriber about a patient's benzodiazepine use (47.1%). Pharmacists acknowledged their potential to undertake a more extensive role in benzodiazepine supply and expressed willingness to do so in practice., Conclusions: This study adds to the limited body of existing literature regarding community pharmacists' role in benzodiazepine supply. The findings indicate the need to revisit existing benzodiazepine guidelines to improve pharmacists' awareness of them and to address long-term prescribing. The apparent lack of active pharmacist involvement in roles and activities extending beyond dispensing needs to be addressed. Given that most pharmacists encountered benzodiazepine prescriptions at least once daily in practice, they are well positioned to promote safe and appropriate benzodiazepine use. Sizeable proportions of pharmacists expressed willingness to expand upon their existing role and facilitate long-term patients in attempting discontinuation. Further research is needed to explore barriers and facilitators to pharmacists undertaking extended roles in benzodiazepine supply in greater detail., (© 2015 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.)

Background: Many individuals worldwide continue to take benzodiazepine receptor agonists (BZRAs) long term (≥3 months). The aim of this study was to conduct a content analysis of the views and experiences of discontinuing long‐term BZRA use as documented in the free‐text responses of respondents to an online questionnaire examining mediators of behaviour change relating to the discontinuation of long‐term BZRA use. Design: The questionnaire was disseminated via online BZRA support groups to community‐based adults with either current or previous experience of long‐term BZRA use. The four free‐text questions focused on (1) barriers and (2) facilitators to discontinuing BZRA use; (3) additional supports required to discontinue BZRA use; and (4) additional comments regarding BZRA use. Response data were analysed using summative content analysis. Results: The most commonly reported barrier to BZRA discontinuation related to the consequences of stopping the medication, including withdrawal symptoms and the possibility of return of the original symptoms. The most common facilitator that respondents reported would help them in discontinuing BZRA use was support, primarily from medical professionals. Many respondents reported having been harmed or negatively affected in some way because of BZRA use. Several respondents expressed regret over ever taking BZRAs and/or reported that, with the benefit of hindsight, they should never have taken BZRAs in the first instance. Conclusion: The findings highlight the range of barriers faced by those attempting BZRA discontinuation and the importance of additional supports. Holistic and person‐centred approaches are needed to support discontinuation of long‐term BZRA use that considers an individual's personal circumstances and wider social context. Patient or Public Contribution: 'Experts by experience' with previous experience of long‐term BZRA use were involved in developing the questionnaire and writing the manuscript as collaborators. Individuals with lived experience of taking BZRAs completed the questionnaire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Long‐term benzodiazepine receptor agonist (BZRA) use persists in healthcare settings worldwide and poses risks of patient harm. Objective: This study aimed to develop an intervention to support discontinuation of long‐term BZRA use among willing individuals. Methods: The intervention development process aligned with the UK Medical Research Council's complex intervention framework. This involved a previous systematic review of brief interventions targeting long‐term BZRA use in primary care and qualitative interviews based on the Theoretical Domains Framework that explored barriers and facilitators to discontinuing long‐term BZRA use. A codesign approach was used involving an active partnership between experts by experience, researchers and clinicians. Intervention content was specified in terms of behaviour change techniques (BCTs). Results: The SAFEGUARDING‐BZRAs (Supporting sAFE and GradUAl ReDuctIon of loNG‐term BenZodiazepine Receptor Agonist uSe) toolkit comprises 24 BCTs and includes recommendations targeted at primary care‐based clinicians for operationalizing each BCT to support individuals with BZRA discontinuation. Conclusion: The SAFEGUARDING‐BZRAs toolkit has been developed using a systematic and theory‐based approach that addresses identified limitations of previous research. Further research is needed to assess its usability and acceptability by service users and clinicians, as well as its potential to effectively support safe and gradual reduction of long‐term BZRA use. Patient or Public Contribution: The qualitative interview phase included patients as participants. The codesign process included 'experts by experience' with either current or previous experience of long‐term BZRA use as collaborators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Existing interventions to reduce long‐term benzodiazepine receptor agonist (BZRA) use lack theoretical underpinning and detailed descriptions. This creates difficulties in understanding how interventions work and how to replicate them in practice. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) can be used to identify behaviour change determinants to target during intervention development. Objective: To explore barriers and facilitators to discontinuing BZRA use from the perspective of both current and previous long‐term BZRA users. Design/Setting and Participants: Semistructured TDF‐based interviews were conducted with community‐based individuals with current or previous experience of long‐term BZRA use. Data were recorded, transcribed and analysed using the framework method. Results: Twenty‐eight individuals were interviewed. Despite commonalities in perceived barriers/facilitators to discontinuing BZRA use within individual TDF domains, individual participants had different experiences of identified determinants of BZRA discontinuation. For example, both similarities and differences existed within and between each participant group in terms of knowledge of the appropriate duration of BZRA use ('Knowledge' domain) and experience of withdrawal symptoms ('Reinforcement' domain). Compared to previous users, current users typically anticipated more barriers to discontinuing BZRA use and fewer positive consequences of discontinuation. Conclusion: This study reports on barriers and facilitators to discontinuing BZRA use from the perspectives of current and previous long‐term users. The findings highlight the challenging nature of BZRA discontinuation and a multitude of barriers that impact participants' behaviour regarding BZRA use. Future work will involve developing a theory‐based intervention to support BZRA discontinuation in primary care. Patient Contribution: The study included patients as participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]