Study Finds No Link Between Long-Term Use of Alprazolam and Alzheimer’s Disease
A recent study has found no evidence suggesting that long-term use of alprazolam, a commonly prescribed medication for generalized anxiety disorder, increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The study’s findings provide reassurance to individuals who rely on alprazolam for anxiety relief.
The debate surrounding the potential connection between benzodiazepines, the class of drugs to which alprazolam belongs, and Alzheimer’s disease has been ongoing for years. However, the new study adds to a growing body of research dispelling this concern.
Researchers at the Complex Operating Unit of Psychiatry at the ASST of Lodi have pointed out that benzodiazepines like alprazolam are typically prescribed for acute anxiety episodes, rather than for long-term use. They recommend using selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as a first-line therapy for generalized anxiety disorder due to their proven efficacy and tolerability.
Although some studies have indicated a correlation between benzodiazepine use and an increased risk of dementia, further examination reveals that individuals exhibiting early symptoms of cognitive impairment, such as mild cognitive deficits, often experience symptoms of anxiety. As a result, they may be prescribed anxiolytics like alprazolam. This correlation does not imply causation, but rather highlights the presence of cognitive impairment symptoms before the initiation of benzodiazepine treatment.
The American Journal of Psychiatry published an editorial in 2020 summarizing recent research on this subject. It acknowledged that the use of sedatives or hypnotics may temporarily worsen cognitive functioning, but this effect is dose-dependent and typically resolves once the treatment is discontinued. Therefore, it is crucial to use these medications at the lowest effective doses and for the shortest duration possible.
While conclusive evidence establishing a direct link between benzodiazepines and Alzheimer’s disease is still lacking, it is important for individuals to consult with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate treatment for their specific anxiety disorder. Experts urge patients to regularly reevaluate their therapy options and communicate any concerns or questions they may have.
Until further research provides a definitive answer, individuals using alprazolam for anxiety can take comfort in the fact that their prescribed medication does not appear to increase their risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.