Benzodiazepine use in schizophrenia: A review of the literature.

INTRODUCTION

Emerging data suggest that benzodiazepines are not appropriate for patients in the long-term management of schizophrenia.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted on studies published on the topic of benzodiazepines and schizophrenia from 2004 to 2024. The search returned more than 3000 results of which 27 were relevant to include in this scoping review.

RESULTS

The publications identified for this review spanned benzodiazepines' negative impact on mortality, hospitalizations, brain volume changes, cognition, global functioning, and quality of life. There were also publications identified to evaluate the current evidence for use in schizophrenia as well as related conditions, such as tardive dyskinesia, akathisia, and catatonia.

DISCUSSION: Based on the currently available guidelines, there seems to be a lack of a clear stance against the regular use of benzodiazepines in schizophrenia. These organizations should be more straightforward about the specific potential uses and risks associated with benzodiazepine use in schizophrenia.