Risks Associated With Benzodiazepine Long-Term Use in Chronic Insomnia: A Systematic Review and (Network) Meta-Analysis.
J Sleep ResJun 11, 2026 (epub)
Dieter Riemann, Chiara Baglioni, Christoph Nissen et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the risks of long-term benzodiazepine use in adults with chronic insomnia, analyzing 27 studies. It found that individuals using benzodiazepines experienced significantly higher levels of depression and anxiety compared to healthy sleepers, while their insomnia severity was less than those not on medication. The study underscores the need for cautious prescribing practices.
Key findings
- Benzodiazepine users had more severe insomnia than healthy sleepers but less severe than non-users.
- Users experienced significantly higher levels of depression and anxiety compared to healthy sleepers.
- The risk of falls was similar between benzodiazepine users and non-users.
Why it matters
Understanding the risks associated with long-term benzodiazepine use is crucial for clinicians managing chronic insomnia, as it may inform treatment decisions and encourage the exploration of safer alternatives.