Benzodiazepine use between prison and territory: medical treatment or self-prescription?

Background: Benzodiazepines (BDZ) are prescribed for short-term treatment of insomnia and anxiety, however their abuse may involve serious addiction problems often underestimated. BDZ addiction represents a widespread but mainly neglected phenomenon, even though the withdrawal syndrome is potentially serious and dangerous. The growing concern about the misuse of benzodiazepines outside of a proper therapeutic framework, was highlighted by the European Drug Observatory and drug addiction (EMCDDA) in a recent report that picture an increase in BDZ use among high-risk drug addicts, prisoners and some groups of recreational drug users. This trend may depend on the high availability and affordability of these substances mixed with mental-health problems related to the pandemic state.

Methods: The use of BDZ and other substances will be checked through statistical analyses on medical records of each patient (urine tests). Furthermore, two additional questionnaires will be submitted in order to collect data about clinical history, substances use and risk perception.

Results: This research will observe about 200 patients over a six-months period (May-October 2022). Participants will be enrolled from the addiction services of two italian cities, Riccione and Forlì, and may reside in their respective city area or be confined to the Rimini prison.

Conclusion: The present study will photograph the actual trend of BDZ use in addiction patients, detained or not. The results will help to shape information and prevention campaigns aimed at people who use drugs.