Awareness and Use of Benzodiazepines in Pakistan
Author Information
Author(s): Raoof Mustafa, Nawaz Haq, Nusrat Rabeeya, Pabaney Aqueel Hussain, Randhawa Ali Raza, Rehman Rabeea, Rizvi Nida Butool, Naqvi Haider
Primary Institution: Aga Khan University, Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
Hypothesis
What is the level of awareness and usage of benzodiazepines among healthy volunteers and ambulatory patients in Pakistan?
Conclusion
The study found that easy access to benzodiazepines without prescriptions and a lack of understanding of their abuse potential poses a significant public health risk.
Supporting Evidence
- 80.4% of the population was aware of one or more benzodiazepines.
- 30.4% had used benzodiazepines at some point in their life.
- 42.4% of users had been using benzodiazepines for more than a year.
- Common reasons for use included sleep disturbance and anxiety.
- 59% of users were prescribed benzodiazepines by healthcare providers.
Takeaway
Many people in Pakistan know about benzodiazepines, but they often use them without understanding the risks, which can be dangerous.
Methodology
This was an observational, cross-sectional study conducted through a structured questionnaire at a tertiary care hospital.
Potential Biases
The study may have selection bias as it did not include inpatients or certain demographics.
Limitations
The sample was drawn from a non-admitted population, which may not represent the general urban Pakistani population.
Participant Demographics
The mean age was 35.64 years, with 58.5% males and 41.5% females; most were married and from medium income groups.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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