France highlights benzodiazepine dependence and risky alcohol withdrawal in the elderly

Alcohol and benzodiazepines are often used together, but abrupt cessation can trigger severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, agitation, hallucinations and delirium tremens. Medical supervision is recommended to manage these risks, especially when doses are high, use is long‑term, or prior withdrawal attempts have been problematic.

In France, prescription of benzodiazepines to people aged 65 + is unusually high. Studies show that about 13 % of seniors receive at least one potentially inappropriate prescription each year, and roughly half of nursing‑home residents are prescribed these drugs. Long‑acting benzodiazepines and prolonged use increase the likelihood of falls, fractures and hospitalisations. French health authorities advise limiting treatment to three months and avoiding long‑acting agents in older patients.