Alcohol Consumption Patterns in Individuals With Prolonged Benzodiazepine Use in Primary Health Care

Introduction: Benzodiazepines (BZD) are widely used in Primary Health Care (PHC) and are considered safe when taken alone for up to 3 months. Concomitant use with alcohol can cause excessive sedation, cognitive impairment, increased risk of falls, and respiratory arrest. This study aimed to analyze alcohol consumption among individuals under prolonged BZD use in PHC in the city of Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. Methods: Alcohol consumption and associated factors were assessed among 144 BZD users in PHC in Ribeirão Preto (SP), who had been continuously using the medication for at least 3 months, four or more days per week. Data were collected in public pharmacies through interviews and the application of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test questionnaire. Results: The mean age was 64.3 years; 68.1% were older adults, and 78.5% were women. Among participants, 43.7% reported alcohol consumption during treatment, and 13.9% reported concomitant use of BZD and alcohol on the same day. Men were 19 times more likely to engage in harmful alcohol use, while increasing age appeared as a protective factor. Only 56.9% reported receiving guidance on the risks of this combination. Conclusions: Promoting the rational use of BZD and reinforcing guidance on the risks of concomitant alcohol use are essential.