Often, unintentionally, or due to fragmentation of care, or due to improper documentation/lack of review of documentation, or due to concealment by the patient, some patients are also using alcohol while taking a benzodiazepine along with a sleep aid. The combination of 2 or 3 categories of products are especially dangerous (excessive sedation, confusion/delirium, falls, or respiratory arrest). Additionally, when trying to suddenly discontinue 2 or 3 categories of products all at once, there is a significantly increased risk of seizures and death.
Charles Tadros, M.D.
August 17, 2022
Saint Louis, Missouri