Use of Benzodiazepines in Treatment of Depression and Anxiety in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Trends, Controversies and Alternatives

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is primarily affecting the lungs but is also associated with a number of accompanying conditions known as comorbidities. Depression, anxiety and insomnia are very common among older people and especially those with COPD. Treatment of these conditions is often related to prescription of benzodiazepines, a class of drugs which is highly addictive and has adverse effects on the respiratory function. Despite of the known harms and controversial benefits, the use of benzodiazepines in the general population and in COPD patients is increasing. In this article are discussed the mechanisms of coexistence of anxiety and depression in COPD patients and the use of benzodiazepines in their treatment: trends of prescription, indications and harmful effects. The use of this group of medications is a matter of debate and suggests further use of alternative treatment, more specific personalized therapeutic approach and non-pharmacological interventions.