Healthy Skepticism Library item: 12589

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Publication type: Journal Article

Bachmann CS, Berg EA, Spigset O, Slørdal L.
[Benzodiazepine-like hypnotics - attitudes and prescription practice among general practioners.]
Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen 2008 Jan 17; 128:(2):166-70
http://www.tidsskriftet.no/index.php?vp_SEKS_ID=1641672

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: The large increase in sales of the benzodiazepine-like hypnotics (z-hypnotics) zopiclone and zolpidem over the last decade prompted an investigation into Norwegian general practitioners’ prescription habits, knowledge of and attitudes to these drugs. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A questionnaire was distributed to all 928 registered GPs in six Norwegian counties. The physicians were asked to assess statements, patient vignettes and drug preferences with regard to z-hypnotic and benzodiazepine prescription practice. The responders were anonymized and grouped with respect to gender, county, years of professional experience, knowledge and attitudes. RESULTS: A total of 321 (36 %) of the GPs responded. Among the respondents, physicians with adequate knowledge about clinical use of and restrictive prescription attitudes towards z-hypnotics and benzodiazepines prescribed these drugs with a lower frequency. Prescription rates did not vary as a function of sex, geographical localization, work experience or knowledge about drug pharmacodynamics. A total of 56 % of the respondents preferred zopiclone to zolpidem, whereas 8 % preferred zolpidem. :Many of the factors, which were used to justify the preferences, were irrelevant or erroneous. INTERPRETATION: The study revealed a lack of factual knowledge about these drugs, and may suggest that a rational prescription practice is restrictive.