Brazil study addresses indiscriminate benzodiazepine use in primary health care

A master's thesis from the Northeast Family Health Training Network (RENASF) addresses the indiscriminate use of benzodiazepines within primary health care settings in Brazil. The study highlights the challenges posed by the medicalization of psychological suffering and the prolonged use of psychotropic drugs.

Research indicates that using these medications beyond recommended periods can lead to dependency, cognitive impairment, increased fall risks, and reduced autonomy for patients. To combat this, the study focuses on developing educational technology for users of the Unified Health System (SUS) at a health center in a Northeastern Brazilian capital.