Uso de benzodiazepinas y fármacos relacionados en el seguro social para adultos mayores de Argentina / Use of benzodiazepines and related drugs in social security for older adults in Argentina

Resumen El uso clínico de las benzodiazepinas (BZD) y fármacos relacionados es un tema controversial, especialmente la prescripción prolongada en adultos mayores, que es contraria a las recomendaciones generales. Nuestro objetivo fue describir el uso de BZD y de los hipnóticos denominados fármacos Z (zolpidem, zopiclona y eszopiclona) en los adultos mayores beneficiarios del Instituto Nacional de Servicios Sociales para Jubilados y Pensionados (INSSJP-PAMI) de Argentina. Se realizó un estudio de utilización de medicamentos observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal, a partir de la base de datos de dispensa de medicamentos del Instituto. Se incluyeron los beneficiarios de ambos sexos de 65 años y más. Se calculó para cada fármaco la prevalencia de uso en 2018 y las dosis diarias definidas (DDD) por cada 1000 habitantes/día (DHD). Se inclu yeron 3 864 949 beneficiarios (77.6 % de la población argentina de esa edad, 61.2 % mujeres), con 184 000 nonagenarios y más de 5000 centenarios. El 30.3 % recibió al me nos una dispensa de BZD o fármacos Z durante 2018, con mayor prevalencia de uso en mujeres (35.6%) que en varones (22.0%) y con aumento progresivo hasta los 85-89 años, y descenso posterior. Las BZD más recetadas fueron alprazolam (41.6%) y clonazepam (41.1%), seguidas por lorazepam (9.9%). La dispensa alcanzó 252.7 DHD, representado un promedio de 0.8 DDD por usuario y por día, valor que disminuyó con la edad. La prevalencia de uso encontrada está entre las más elevadas a nivel internacional, justificando la implementación de intervenciones clínicas y de salud pública para mejorar esta situación.

Abstract The clinical use of benzodiazepines (BZD) and related drugs is a controversial issue, especially prolonged prescription in older adults, which is contrary to general recommendations. Our objective was to describe the use of BZD and the hypnotics called Z drugs (zolpidem, zopiclone and eszopiclone) in elderly beneficiaries of the National Institute of Social Services for Retirees and Pensioners (INSSJP-PAMI) of Argentina. An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional drug use study was conducted based on the Institute's drug dispensing database. Beneficiaries of both sexes aged 65 years and over were included. The prevalence of use in 2018 and the defined daily doses (DDD) per 1000 inhabitants / day (DHD) were calculated for each drug. A total of 3 864 949 benefi ciaries were included (77.6% of the Argentine population of that age, 61.2% women), with 184 000 nonagenar ians and more than 5000 centenarians; 30.3% of whom received at least one dispensation of BZD or "Z drugs" during 2018, with a higher prevalence of use in women (35.6%) than in men (22.0%) and with a progressive increase until 85-89 years, with a subsequent decrease. The most prescribed BZDs were alprazolam (41.6%) and clonazepam (41.1%), followed by lorazepam (9.9%). The dispense drugs reached 252.7 DHD, representing an average of 0.8 DDD per user and per day, a value that decreased with age. The prevalence of use found is among the highest at international level, justifying the implementation of clinical and public health interventions to improve this situation.

A preliminary study of antianxiety effect of Cuminum cyminum and comparison with standard drug

Background: Cuminum cyminum has been one of the commonly used home-based spices in India. It shows various properties such as antispasmodic, astringent, antiseptic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antianxiety, anticonvulsant, and carminative. Aim and Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the antianxiety property of C. cyminum and its comparison with diazepam on albino rats. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in Department of Pharmacology at a tertiary care center of Western Rajasthan. Adult albino rats of either sex (100–150 g) were divided into three groups. One group received distilled water and other two group received drugs – C. cyminum and Diazepam, respectively. Results: Antianxiety effect of C. cyminum was not significant in lower and medium doses (300 and 750 mg/kg). Significant antianxiety effect of C. cyminum was seen in higher dose (1000 mg/kg). Conclusion: On the basis of this study, it can be assumed that aqueous extract of C. cyminum could be a potential source to evaluate for the central nervous system disorders. Further studies are needed to explain the actual mechanism of action of C. cyminum at the cellular and molecular levels in detail.

Comparison of the sedative and anti-anxiety effects of levo-tetrahydropalmatine and diazepam on rats with conditioned fear / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Objective:To compare the sedative and anti-anxiety effects of levo-tetrahydropalmatine (L-THP) and diazepam on conditioned fear model rats.Methods:According to the random number table method, 32 adult male rats were divided into blank group, model group, diazepam group and L-THP group(with 8 rats in each group). The conditioned fear model was reproduced by the plantar electric shock method. Four days after the modeling, the rats in diazepam group and L-THP group were given diazepam (3.6 mg/kg) and L-THP (25 mg/kg) were respectively gavaged once a day for 10 days, the rats in blank group and model group were given the same volume of saline. After the administration, the elevated plus maze test and the open field test were used to measure the anxiety behavior of the rats, and the sleep energy monitoring system was used to detect changes in sleep and energy-related indicators. SPSS 23.0 and Graphpad Prism 7.0 softwares were used for data analysis, multiple samples between groups were compared by one-way ANOVA, and LSD test was used for pairwise comparison.Results:The results of the elevated plus maze experiment showed that compared with the model group, the percentage of open-arm entry times ((11.27±8.78)%, (30.11±14.59)%, P<0.05) and the percentage of open-arm residence time ((1.94±1.48)%, (17.53±8.21)%, P<0.05) in diazepam group were all significantly increased. Compared with the model group, the open arm residence time, the percentage of open arm residence time and the percentage of open arm entry times in L-THP group showed an upward trend, but there was no statistical significance (all P>0.05). The results of the open field experiment showed that compared with the model group, the time of entering the central grid ((2.99±1.83) s, (6.94±3.52) s, P<0.05) and the time of entering the peripheral field ((297.01±1.83) s, (293.30±3.52) s, P<0.05) in diazepam group both increased. Compared with the model group, there was no significant difference in the changes of various indexes in L-THP group (all P>0.05). The results of locomotor activities showed that the autonomic activity times of model group in nighttime was significantly lower than that of blank group((758.79±375.37)times/h, (1 101.93±525.96)times/h, P<0.05). Compared with the model group, the number of autonomous activities of rats in L-THP group in daytime ((820.57±364.60) times/min, (502.40±228.54)times/min, P<0.05) decreased, and the number of autonomous activities in the nighttime ((758.79±375.37) times/min, (1 146.85±309.69)times/min, P<0.05) increased, but there was no significant change in the number of autonomous activities in the whole day. Correlation analysis of energy metabolism related indexes and sleep time of rats in each group were analyzed. The experimental results showed that the daytime sleep time were negatively correlated with heat value ( r=-0.335, P<0.05), and the night sleep time was positively correlated with daytime heat value ( r=0.352, P<0.05). Conclusion:L-tetrahydropalmatine has no significant anti-anxiety effect in the concentration range used in this study, but its sedative and improving sleep activity rhythm are better than diazepam.

The Use of Benzodiazepines among brazilian women: an integrative literature review / Uso de Benzodiazepínicos por mulheres brasileiras: revisão integrativa de literatura / Uso de Benzodiazepinicos por mujeres brasileñas: revisión integral de literatura

The prolonged use of benzodiazepines among women has been a recurring issue in health services. Hence, this study aimed to conduct an integrative literature review to identify the profile of Brazilian women regularly using benzodiazepines. The SciELO, PePSIC, and BVS-LILACS databases were searched, and 86 articles were identified by combining the keywords "mulher(es) AND benzodiazepínico(s)", but only 11 papers met the inclusion criteria. Data revealed a higher concentration of women aged between 40 and 60 years old who used benzodiazepines for between one month and 37 years to treat insomnia, anxiety, headaches, and sadness. Benzodiazepines appear as a resource to escape problems and are usually prescribed by general practitioners without taking into account these women's social issues that involve role overload, among other factors.

O uso prolongado de benzodiazepínicos em mulheres tem sido uma questão recorrente encontrada nos serviços de saúde. Assim, este estudo teve como objetivo realizar uma revisão integrativa de literatura para identificar o perfil das mulheres de nacionalidade brasileira que fazem uso regular de benzodiazepínicos. Foram feitas buscas nas bases de dados SciELO, PePSIC e BVS-LILACS, e encontrados 86 artigos a partir das palavras-chave combinadas "mulher(es) AND benzodiazepínico(s)", sendo selecionados 11 a partir dos critérios de inclusão. Os dados mostraram uma concentração maior de mulheres com idade de 40 a 60 anos, com uso entre 1 mês e 37 anos dos benzodiazepínicos para tratar de insônia, ansiedade, cefaleia e tristeza. Os benzodiazepínicos aparecem como recurso para fugir dos problemas e geralmente são receitados pelo clínico geral, sem articulação com as questões sociais vivenciadas pelas mulheres que envolvem sobrecarga de papéis, entre outros pontos.

El uso prolongado de benzodiazepinas en mujeres ha sido una cuestión recurrente encontrada en los servicios de salud. Así, ese estudio tuvo como objetivo realizar una revisión integrativa de literatura para identificar quién es la mujer brasileña que utiliza benzodiazepinas. Se realizaron búsquedas en las bases de datos SciELO, PePSIC y BVS-LILACS, y encontrados 86 artículos a partir de las palabras clave "mulher(es) AND benzodiazepínico(s)", siendo seleccionados 11 a partir de los criterios de exclusión. Los datos mostraron una concentración mayor de mujeres por encima de 40 y 60, con uso entre 1 mes y 37 años de las benzodiazepinas para tratar de insomnio, ansiedad, cefalea y tristeza. Los benzodiazepínicos aparecen como un recurso para huir de los problemas y generalmente son recetados por el clínico general, sin articulación con las cuestiones sociales vivenciadas por las mujeres que involucran sobrecarga de papeles, entre otros puntos.

Os benzodiazepínicos na ordem dos discursos: de objeto da ciência a objeto gadget do capitalismo / Benzodiazepines in the order of discourses: from object of science to gadget object of capitalism

Resumo Este estudo objetiva analisar o fenômeno do abuso de benzodiazepínicos, considerando o modo como essa substância comparece nos discursos constituídos na abordagem do mal-estar na contemporaneidade. Trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva, de natureza qualitativa; foram ouvidos 18 médicos e enfermeiros atuantes na rede de saúde de Fortaleza, além de nove mulheres usuárias dos serviços. A população entre usuários limitou-se ao sexo feminino, devido ao fato de a literatura apontar prevalência do abuso de benzodiazepínicos nesse público. No exame dos dados, usou-se a análise do discurso de corrente francesa, a qual permitiu entrever como o medicamento comparece no laço social, apresentando diferentes significações, a depender do lugar ocupado nos discursos. Nos resultados encontrados destaca-se que o benzodiazepínico entra em uma espécie de curto-circuito no qual o tráfico de drogas comparece tanto na porta de entrada (como argumento para o consumo da substância em decorrência da violência cotidiana experimentada por essas mulheres) como na outra ponta (como substância desviada dos serviços de saúde e comercializada nos pontos de venda de drogas). Essa medicação constitui-se, assim, num gadget - objeto de consumo revestido pelo brilho de supostamente recobrir a falta. Diante desse cenário, urge pensar políticas públicas que possam ir além do modelo medicalizante.

Abstract This study aims to analyze the phenomenon of benzodiazepine abuse, considering the way this substance appears in discourses constituted in approaching the lack of well-being in the contemporary world. This is a descriptive research of qualitative nature. Eighteen physicians and nurses working in the health network of Fortaleza were heard, in addition to nine female users of these services. The user population was restricted to females due to the literature underlining a prevalence of benzodiazepine abuse in this public. Data analysis using French discourse analysis showed how the drug affects the social bond, presenting different meanings depending on the place occupied in the discourse. It is worth noting that in the findings the benzodiazepine user sort of short-circuits, in which drug trafficking appears both on one side (as an argument for substance consumption due to the daily violence experienced by these women) and on the other (as it is a substance deviated from health services and marketed at drug outlets). This medication thus constitutes a gadget object - an object of consumption coated with the gloss of supposedly satisfying its lack. Given this scenario, it is crucial to ponder new public policies capable of surpassing the medicalization model.

Clinical efficacy of anti－anxiety treatment in patients with arrhythmia / 中国基层医药

Objective To analyze the relationship between arrhythmias and anxiety , and to evaluate the effect of anti －anxiety treatment in patients with arrhythmias while given conventional treatment .Methods From February 2015 to February 2017,111 patients with arrhythmia in the Fourth Hospital of Handan were selected in the study,and they were divided into treatment group (n＝62) and control group (n＝49) according to the admission to single and double wards.The control group was treated with conventional anti －arrhythmias drugs,while the treatment group was treated with low －dose of anti －anxiety drugs and conventional anti －arrhythmias drugs.The therapeutic effects,symptoms improvement time and adverse reactions were compared between the two groups .Results The effective rate in the treatment group was 96.8%(60／62), which in the control group was 77.6%(38／49), the difference was statistically significant between the two groups (χ2 ＝9.78,P＜0.05).The time of symptoms improve－ment significantly was (4.7 ±1.1)d in the treatment group ,which in the control group was (6.9 ±1.3)d,there was statistically significant difference between the two groups (t＝7.33,P＜0.05).There was no statistically significant difference in side effect between the two groups (P＞0.05).Conclusion Arrhythmia has a certain relationship with anxiety.Anti－anxiety combined with anti －arrhythmic treatment can improve the curative effect of patients with arrhythmia and shorten the time when symptoms begin to improve.

Research status and prospect of herbal volatile oil in prevention and treatment of emotional diseases / 中草药

Volatile oil is the representative effective component of aromatic Chinese materia medica (CMM), which has pharmacological activities such as anti-anxiety, antidepressant, sedative and neuroprotective effects. They can regulate people’s mood through olfactory, skin and other ways of administration, play a role in regulating consciousness, and have unique advantages in the prevention and treatment of emotional diseases such as depression, anxiety, insomnia and so on. As a unique health service resource, it can also play an auxiliary role in the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of other physical and mental diseases. However, at present, there are some problems, such as weak basic research, lack of effective and high-quality preparations and products. In this paper, the relevant research literature is summarized, the administration route, efficacy and action mechanism are systematically combed, the existing problems are analyzed and the countermeasures are put forward, so as to provide reference for its in-depth research, further development and utilization.

Clinical study of Chaihu-Longgu-Muli decotion combined with western medicine in the treatment of somatic anxiety disorder / 国际中医中药杂志

Objective To evaluate the therapeutic effect of Chaihu-Longgu-Muli decotion combined with western medicine in the treatment of somatic anxiety disorder. Methods A total of 93 patients with somatic anxiety were divided into control group (46 cases) and study group (47 cases) according to random number table method. The control group was treated with conventional western medicine. The study group was treated with Chaihu-Longgu-Muli decotion on the basis of the control group. The two groups were treated for 4 weeks. Before and after treatment, TCM syndrome scores were conducted. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to evaluate sleep quality. The Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) was used to evaluate anxiety. The adverse reaction was recorded and clinical efficacy was evaluated. Results The total effective rate of the study group was 93.62% (44/47), 67.39% (31/46) of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant between the two groups (χ2=10.244, P=0.001). After treatment, insomnia, limb chills, palpitation, limb burnout, limb pain scores in the study group were significantly lower than those of the control group (t values were 4.190, 4.707, 4.714, 3.686, 7.070, respectively, all Ps<0.01). After treatment, the scores of PSQI (9.4 ± 3.2 vs. 13.8 ± 3.8, t=6.045) and SAS (48.7 ± 13.7 vs. 58.1 ± 12.9, t=3.405) in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.01). During the treatment, the incidence of adverse reactions was 19.6% (9/46) in the control group and 4.3% (2/47) in the study group. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant ( χ 2=5.225, P=0.022). Conclusions The Chaihu-Longgu-Muli decotion combined with western medicine can improve the symptoms of traditional Chinese medicine, sleep quality and anxiety of patients with somatic anxiety, reduce adverse reactions and improve the clinical efficacy.

Clinical efficacy of anti-anxiety treatment in patients with arrhythmia / 中国基层医药

Objective@#To analyze the relationship between arrhythmias and anxiety, and to evaluate the effect of anti-anxiety treatment in patients with arrhythmias while given conventional treatment.@*Methods@#From February 2015 to February 2017, 111 patients with arrhythmia in the Fourth Hospital of Handan were selected in the study, and they were divided into treatment group(n=62) and control group(n=49) according to the admission to single and double wards.The control group was treated with conventional anti-arrhythmias drugs, while the treatment group was treated with low-dose of anti-anxiety drugs and conventional anti-arrhythmias drugs.The therapeutic effects, symptoms improvement time and adverse reactions were compared between the two groups.@*Results@#The effective rate in the treatment group was 96.8%(60/62), which in the control group was 77.6%(38/49), the difference was statistically significant between the two groups (χ2=9.78, P<0.05). The time of symptoms improvement significantly was (4.7±1.1)d in the treatment group, which in the control group was (6.9±1.3)d, there was statistically significant difference between the two groups(t=7.33, P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in side effect between the two groups(P>0.05).@*Conclusion@#Arrhythmia has a certain relationship with anxiety.Anti-anxiety combined with anti-arrhythmic treatment can improve the curative effect of patients with arrhythmia and shorten the time when symptoms begin to improve.

Clinical study of Chaihu-Longgu-Muli decotion combined with western medicine in the treatment of somatic anxiety disorder / 国际中医中药杂志

Objective@#To evaluate the therapeutic effect of Chaihu-Longgu-Muli decotion combined with western medicine in the treatment of somatic anxiety disorder.@*Methods@#A total of 93 patients with somatic anxiety were divided into control group (46 cases) and study group (47 cases) according to random number table method. The control group was treated with conventional western medicine. The study group was treated with Chaihu-Longgu-Muli decotion on the basis of the control group. The two groups were treated for 4 weeks. Before and after treatment, TCM syndrome scores were conducted. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to evaluate sleep quality. The Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) was used to evaluate anxiety. The adverse reaction was recorded and clinical efficacy was evaluated.@*Results@#The total effective rate of the study group was 93.62% (44/47), 67.39% (31/46) of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant between the two groups (χ2=10.244, P=0.001). After treatment, insomnia, limb chills, palpitation, limb burnout, limb pain scores in the study group were significantly lower than those of the control group (t values were 4.190, 4.707, 4.714, 3.686, 7.070, respectively, all Ps<0.01). After treatment, the scores of PSQI (9.4 ± 3.2 vs. 13.8 ± 3.8, t=6.045) and SAS (48.7 ± 13.7 vs. 58.1 ± 12.9, t=3.405) in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.01). During the treatment, the incidence of adverse reactions was 19.6% (9/46) in the control group and 4.3% (2/47) in the study group. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (χ2=5.225, P=0.022).@*Conclusions@#The Chaihu-Longgu-Muli decotion combined with western medicine can improve the symptoms of traditional Chinese medicine, sleep quality and anxiety of patients with somatic anxiety, reduce adverse reactions and improve the clinical efficacy.

Effect of ethanol Adiantum capillus-veneris extract in experimental models of anxiety and depression

Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders with a prevalence of 15%-25%. Monoamine aminotransferases, in particular, norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine, change in the brain of depressed people. Adiantum capillus-veneris is one of the species of the maidenhair fern genus that have traditionally been used to treat cough, cold symptoms, and local hair loss.In this experimental study, white male rats weighing 250-300 g were assigned to 5 groups of 10 each; group 1: Receiving normal saline; groups 2-4: Receiving A.capillus-veneris extract at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, respectively; and group 5: Receiving fluoxetine at 10 mg/kg. Chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) was induced by 3-week exposure to chronic stress. The forced swim test and plus maze were used to assess depression and anxiety, respectively. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and antioxidant capacity in the serum and brain were measured. Treatment with A.capillus-veneris extract at 200 mg/kg significantly reduced the duration of immobility. In the group given extract at 200 mg/kg, a significant increase in the number of open arm entries was observed when compared to the control group. A.capillus-veneris extract at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg resulted in a significant increase in the time spent in the open arm. A.capillus-veneris extract reduced MDA levels and increased antioxidant levels of serum and brain in rat. A.capillus-veneris has significant antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects in rat, probably due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

Uso e abuso de benzodiazepínicos na atenção primária à saúde: práticas profissionais no Brasil e em Cuba / Use and abuse of benzodiazepines in primary healthcare: professional practices in Brazil and Cuba / Uso y abuso de benzodiacepinas en la atención primaria de salud: prácticas profesionales en Brasil y Cuba

O presente estudo buscou compreender aspectos assistenciais presentes na base da utilização indiscriminada de benzodiazepínicos. Com base numa parceria entre uma universidade brasileira e uma cubana, buscou-se o entendimento das práticas relacionadas ao uso desses medicamentos na atenção primária e dos sentidos que profissionais de saúde atribuem a elas. A investigação integrou um estudo de casos múltiplos realizado nos municípios de São Paulo e Diadema (Brasil) e Santiago de Cuba (Cuba). O trabalho de campo adotou como estratégias de coleta de dados entrevistas individuais e grupos focais. Os dados, analisados tematicamente, revelaram cinco temas: (i) terra de ninguém: a ausência de gestão sobre o uso dos benzodiazepínicos pelos profissionais da atenção básica; (ii) indicação inadequada: o benzodiazepínico prescrito psra situações injustificáveis; (iii) salvação e perdição: o medicamento como atenuante da dificuldade de atuação na saúde mental pelos profissionais da atenção primária; (iv) pouco empoderamento dos profissionais da atenção primária para atuação na saúde mental; e (v) cuidado fragmentado: a desarticulação da rede de atenção psicossocial. A pouca apropriação das questões da saúde mental pelos profissionais da atenção primária, a fragmentação do cuidado, a sobrecarga de trabalho com temas considerados prioritários, as deficiências na disponibilidade de recursos terapêuticos e o pouco investimento em formação específica contribuem para o uso não adequado de benzodiazepínicos. Independentemente dos contextos sanitários estudados, os desafios são semelhantes para os sistemas de saúde e só podem ser enfrentados se convertidos em prioridade para a gestão das organizações e para o conjunto dos profissionais.

The current study aimed to grasp the healthcare aspects present at the basis of the indiscriminate use of benzodiazepines. Based on a partnership between a Brazilian university and a Cuban university, the study aimed to understand the practices related to the use of these drugs in primary care and the meanings healthcare workers assign to them. The research was part of a multiple case study in the cities of São Paulo and Diadema (Brasil), and Santiago de Cuba (Cuba). The fieldwork data collection strategy was based on individual interviews and focus groups. Data were analyzed thematically and yielded five themes: (i) no man's land: lack of management of benzodiazepine use by primary care workers; (ii) inadequate indications: the benzodiazepine prescribed for unjustifiable situations; (iii) salvation and perdition: the medicine as attenuating the difficulty of acting in mental health by primary care professionals; (iv) limited empowerment to work in mental health; and (v) fragmented care: dissociation of the psychosocial care network. Limited grasp of mental health issues by primary care workers, fragmented care, work overload with what are considered other priorities, deficiencies in the availability of therapeutic resources, and limited investment in specific training contribute to the inadequate use of benzodiazepines. Independently of the health contexts, the challenges are similar for the health systems and can only be confronted if they become a priority for the organizations' management and the health workers as a whole.

El presente estudio tuvo como meta comprender aspectos asistenciales existentes en relación con la utilización indiscriminada de benzodiacepinas. A partir de la colaboración entre una universidad brasileña y una cubana, se procuró el entendimiento mutuo de las prácticas relacionadas con el uso de esos medicamentos en la atención primaria, así como el sentido que los profesionales de la salud les atribuyen. La investigación integró un estudio de casos múltiples, realizado en los municipios de Sao Paulo y Diadema (Brasil) y Santiago de Cuba (Cuba). El trabajo de campo adoptó como estrategias de recogida de datos entrevistas individuales y grupos focales. Los datos, analizados temáticamente, revelaron cinco temas que detallamos a continuación. (i) tierra de nadie: la ausencia de gestión sobre el uso de las benzodiacepinas por parte de los profesionales de la atención básica; (ii) indicación inadecuada: las benzodiacepinas para situaciones injustificables; (iii) salvación y perdición: la medicación como atenuación de la dificultad de actuar en la salud mental por los profesionales de la atención primaria; (iv) poco empoderamiento para trabajar en el ámbito de la salud mental y (v) cuidado fragmentado: la desarticulación de la red de atención psicosocial. La escasa asunción de las cuestiones de salud mental por parte de los profesionales de atención primaria, la fragmentación del cuidado, la sobrecarga de trabajo con temas considerados prioritarios, las deficiencias en la disponibilidad de recursos terapéuticos y la poca inversión en formación específica contribuyen al uso no adecuado de benzodiacepinas. Independientemente de los contextos sanitarios estudiados, los desafíos son semejantes en todos los sistemas de salud y sólo pueden enfrentarse si se convierten en prioridad para quienes gestionan instituciones, así como para el conjunto de profesionales.

Antidepressivos, ansiolíticos, hipnóticos e sedativos: uma análise dos gastos em Minas Gerais / Antidepressive, anti-anxiety and hypnotics and sedatives agents: an analysis of public expenditure in Minas Gerais state, Brazil

Resumo A alocação de recursos com a aquisição de medicamentos é um dos maiores desafios para a efetivação da assistência farmacêutica no SUS. No entanto, poucos estudos avaliam a evolução desses gastos no nível estadual, especialmente com as classes dos antidepressivos, ansiolíticos e hipnótico-sedativos. O objetivo do estudo foi analisar e identificar os determinantes dos gastos com essas classes terapêuticas em Minas Gerais. Foram utilizados dados de compras públicas do Sistema Integrado de Administração de Materiais e Serviços (SIAD-MG) entre 2010 e 2015. Estimaram-se os gastos e volumes totais, além dos gastos com medicamentos não constantes nas listas de medicamentos essenciais. As análises de "Top 10" e de "Drug Cost 90%" identificaram os medicamentos responsáveis pelo maior gasto, e a análise de decomposição estabeleceu os determinantes da variação das despesas. Os gastos com as três classes totalizaram R$ 81 milhões e aumentaram 2,5 vezes entre 2010 e 2015, passando de R$ 7,5 milhões para R$ 18,7 milhões. Os antidepressivos representaram 89% dos gastos e 71% do volume adquirido. O preço foi o principal fator determinante do aumento das despesas, especialmente na classe dos antidepressivos. Os aumentos dos gastos ressaltam a necessidade de aprimoramento dos procedimentos de compra adotados pelo estado.

Abstract The allocation of financial resources on medicines procurement is one of the greatest challenges to the effectiveness of the Pharmaceutical Services in the Brazilian National Health System. However, there are few studies evaluating this expenditure trends at state level, especially with antidepressants, anxiolytics, hypnotics and sedatives. The study evaluated public expenditure trends and drivers for these therapeutic classes in Minas Gerais state, Brazil, by using data from SIAD database [Sistema Integrado de Administração de Materiais e Serviços] from 2010 to 2015. Total expenditure, volume and also expenditures with medicines not included in the essential lists were estimated. The top 10 medicines in terms of expenditure and drugs accounting for 90% of the total cost were identified. Decomposition analysis was conducted to assess the drivers of expenditure. Expenditure in the period totaled R$ 81 million and increased 2.5 times from 2010 to 2015. Antidepressants accounted for 89% of expenses and 71% of volume. Price contributed positively to the expenditure variation during the period, especially in antidepressants. The results highlight the need of improvement of public procurement procedures adopted by Minas Gerais state.

Fatores associados ao uso de medicamentos ansiolíticos entre bombeiros militares / Factors associated with the use of anxiolytic drugs among military firefighters

RESUMO: Introdução: O uso de ansiolíticos é uma opção no tratamento de sintomas psíquicos. Contudo, ainda que o uso seja controlado há riscos de dependência, intoxicação e alterações cognitivas. O uso não controlado entre trabalhadores agrava tais problemas. Objetivos: Identificar a prevalência do uso de ansiolíticos e conhecer os fatores associados ao consumo em bombeiros militares. Método: Pesquisa transversal de base censitária investigou 711 bombeiros de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, por meio de autorrelato. Regressão logística multinomial foi utilizada para verificar associação entre características sociodemográficas, condições de vida, trabalho e saúde e consumo de ansiolíticos de modo controlado ou não. Resultados: A prevalência do uso de ansiolíticos foi 9,9%. Para 7,5% dos bombeiros o consumo ocorreu sem indicação e/ou controle terapêutico especializado. O uso controlado foi associado ao relato compatível com Transtorno Mental Comum (OR = 23,6; IC95% 6,54 - 85,11). O uso não controlado foi associado ao tempo de serviço (OR = 2,57; IC95% 1,03 - 6,40), ao tabagismo (OR = 3,22; IC95% 1,50 - 6,91) e ao Transtorno Mental Comum (OR = 4,02; IC95% 2,17 - 7,45). Conclusão: A alta prevalência de consumo indica alerta para as ações dos programas de saúde ocupacional.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Use of anxiolytic drugs is an option for treating psychological symptoms. However, even if their use is controlled, there are risks of dependence, intoxication and cognitive alterations. Uncontrolled use among workers worsens these problems. Objectives: Identify the prevalence of anxiolytic use and to know the factors associated with consumption in military firefighters. Method: Cross-sectional survey of 711 firefighters from Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, was conducted through self-reporting. Multinomial logistic regression was used to investigate associations between sociodemographic characteristics, living, working and health conditions and anxiolytic consumption in a controlled or uncontrolled manner. Results: Prevalence of anxiolytic use was 9.9%. For 7.5% of firefighters the consumption occurred without indication and/or specialized therapeutic control. Controlled use was only associated with symptoms compatible with Common Mental Disorder (OR = 23.6; 95%CI 6.54 - 85.11). Uncontrolled use was associated with length of service (OR = 2.57; 95%CI 1.03 - 6.40), smoking (OR = 3.22; 95%CI 1.50 - 6.91) and symptomatology compatible with Common Mental Disorder (OR = 4.02; 95%CI 2.17 - 7.45). Conclusion: The high prevalence of consumption indicates alert to occupational health programs.

Anxiolytic Action of Taurine via Intranasal Administration in Mice

Taurine has a number of beneficial pharmacological actions in the brain such as anxiolytic and neuroprotective actions. We explored to test whether taurine could be transported to the central nervous system through the intranasal route. Following intranasal administration of taurine in mice, elevated plus maze test, activity cage test and rota rod test were carried out to verify taurine’s effect on anxiety. For the characterization of potential mechanism of taurine’s anti-anxiety action, mouse convulsion tests with strychnine, picrotoxin, yohimbine, and isoniazid were employed. A significant increase in the time spent in the open arms was observed when taurine was administered through the nasal route in the elevated plus maze test. In addition, vertical and horizontal activities of mice treated with taurine via intranasal route were considerably diminished. These results support the hypothesis that taurine can be transported to the brain through intranasal route, thereby inducing anti-anxiety activity. Taurine’s anti-anxiety action may be mediated by the strychnine-sensitive glycine receptor as evidenced by the inhibition of strychnine-induced convulsion.

Predictors of Cognitive Improvement during 12 Weeks of Antidepressant Treatment in Patients with Major Depressive Disorder

OBJECTIVE: Cognitive disturbance is one of the major symptoms of depression and may be improved by treatment with antidepressants. This study aimed to investigate the predictors of cognitive improvement in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) who were taking antidepressants. METHODS: This study included 86 patients with MDD who completed 12 weeks of antidepressant monotherapy. Cognitive symptoms were assessed using the Perceived Deficits Questionnaire-Korean version (PDQ-K), which addresses four domains of cognitive functioning (attention/concentration, retrospective memory, prospective memory, and organization/planning) and was administered at study entry and at the 12-week end point. A variety of demographic, clinical, and treatment-related variables were evaluated as predictors of changes in total and domain scores. RESULTS: All PDQ-K domains showed significant improvement after 12 weeks of antidepressant treatment. More severe initial depressive symptoms, fewer sick-leave days at study entry, and reduced use of concomitant anxiolytics/hypnotics during treatment were significantly associated with greater cognitive improvement. CONCLUSION: Cognitive symptoms are more responsive to antidepressant treatment in patients with severe MDD. Reduced use of anxiolytics and hypnotics could improve the cognitive functioning of patients with MDD taking antidepressants.

Influence of Naogongtai Formula on Hippocampus Monoamine Neurotransmitters and Their Metabolites inRats in Elevated Plus-maze Test / 中国药师

Objective:To observe the influence of Naogongtai formula on hippocampus monoamine neurotransmitters and their metabolites in rats in elevated plus-maze test, and explore the mechanism of antihypertensive effect of brain tegument peptide. Methods:The effects of two doses of Naogongtai formula on the anxiety behavior of rats were observed by using the rat model of elevated malaria anxiety (EPM). The contents of monoamine neurotransmitters and their metabolites in hippocampus of rats were determined by HPLC-FLD. Results:Compared with those in the blank control group,the percents of open arms time and entries in the high dosage of Naogongtai formula group significantly increased (P < 0.05),and the percent of open arms entries in the low dosage of Naogongtai formula group significantly increased (P < 0.05). Compared with that in the blank control group, the content of 5-HT in the high dosage of Naogongtai formula group significantly decreased (P < 0.05) and the content of HVA significantly increased (P < 0.05). Conclusion:In the EPM test, Naogongtai formula shows a certain anti-anxiety effect, and the determination of monoamine neurotransmitters in hippocampus of rats may be related to the reduction of rat hippocampal 5-HT content.

Uso de medicamentos ansiolíticos em bombeiros militares de Belo Horizonte / Uso de medicamentos ansiolíticos em bombeiros militares de Belo Horizonte

Ansiolíticos estão entre os psicofármacos mais consumidos no mundo, sendo uma opção no tratamento de sintomas psíquicos. Contudo, ainda que o uso seja controlado, ou seja, mesmo que a terapia medicamentosa ocorra na presença de sintomas psíquicos indicativo de uso e na vigência de acompanhamento profissional, há riscos, tais como dependência, intoxicação e alterações cognitivas. O uso não controlado entre trabalhadores agrava tais problemas. Bombeiros atuam em contextos de altas demandas, nos quais a efetividade do atendimento depende de respostas imediatas e ações integradas. É possível que diante de situações estressantes, os bombeiros recorram ao uso de ansiolíticos como estratégia de compensação dos efeitos aflitivos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar a prevalência do uso de ansiolíticos e conhecer os fatores associados ao consumo em bombeiros militares. Trata-se de uma pesquisa transversal de base censitária que investigou 711 bombeiros do sexo masculino atuantes no Corpo de Bombeiros Militar de Minas Gerais, alocados em unidades operacionais de Belo Horizonte, Brasil. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de autorrelato. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas em quatro etapas: descritiva, univariada, multivariada intermediária e final. A regressão logística multinomial foi utilizada para verificar as associações entre características sociodemográficas, condições de vida, trabalho, saúde e consumo de ansiolíticos de modo controlado ou não. A prevalência do uso de ansiolíticos foi 9,9%. Para 7,5% dos bombeiros, o consumo ocorreu sem indicação e/ou controle terapêutico do psiquiatra. O uso controlado foi associado ao relato compatível com transtorno mental comum (TMC). O uso não controlado foi associado ao tempo de serviço, ao tabagismo e ao TMC. Provavelmente, características da carreira militar, como estabilidade no emprego e reconhecimento social, expliquem a ausência de associações entre condições de trabalho e uso não controlado de ansiolíticos. A alta prevalência de consumo é um alerta para a necessidade de ações integradas entre programas de saúde ocupacional e saúde mental. O rastreamento precoce de sintomas psíquicos, além de indicar situações de trabalho de risco para adoecimento, pode subsidiar a elaboração de medidas de promoção da saúde. Os resultados estimulam a reflexão sobre os serviços de saúde mental ofertados aos bombeiros militares, principalmente no que tange a ações capazes de intervir nos fatores ambientais e organizacionais relacionados à eclosão dos sintomas.

Anxiolytics are among the most consumed psychotropic drugs in the world, being an option in the treatment of psychic symptoms. However, although the use is controlled, that is, even if the drug therapy occurs in the presence of psychic symptoms indicative of use and in the period of professional follow-up, there are risks, such as dependence, intoxication and cognitive alterations. Uncontrolled use among workers aggravates such problems. Firefighters work in contexts of high demands, in which the effectiveness of care depends on immediate responses and integrated actions. It is possible that in the face of stressful situations, firefighters use the use of anxiolytics as a strategy to compensate for the distressing effects. The objective was to identify the prevalence of anxiolytic drugs use and to know the factors associated with consumption in military firefighters. It is a cross-sectional survey census based that investigated 711 male firefighters operating in the Minas Gerais Fire Brigade, located in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The data were obtained through a self-reported. Statistical analyzes occurred in four stages: descriptive, univariate, intermediate and final multivariate. The multinomial logistic regression was used to investigate associations between sociodemographic characteristics, living, working and health conditions and anxiolytic consumption in a controlled or uncontrolled manner. Prevalence of anxiolytic drugs use was 9.9%. For 7.5% of firefighters the consumption occurred without indication and/ or specialized therapeutic control. Controlled use was associated with symptoms compatible with common mental disorder (CMD). Uncontrolled use was associated with length of service, smoking and symptomatology compatible with CMD. Likely, characteristics of the military career, such as job stability and social recognition, explain the absence of associations between working conditions and uncontrolled use of anxiolytics. The high prevalence of consumption is an alert for the need for integrated actions between occupational health and mental health programs. The early screening of psychic symptoms, besides indicating work situations at risk for illness, can subsidize the development of health promotion measures. The results stimulate the reflection on the mental health services offered to the military firefighters, mainly regarding actions that can intervene in environmental and organizational factors related to the outbreak of symptoms.

The Efficacy and Safety of Clonazepam in Patients with Anxiety Disorder Taking Newer Antidepressants: A Multicenter Naturalistic Study

OBJECTIVE: This study compared the efficacy and tolerability of clonazepam with other benzodiazepines in patients with anxiety disorders. METHODS: Inclusion criteria were as follows: age >20 years, diagnosis of anxiety disorder according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th edition, text revision (DSM-IV-TR) criteria, taking only one type of antidepressant, and prescribed one of three oral benzodiazepines (alprazolam, clonazepam, or lorazepam). At baseline and week 6, clinical benefit was evaluated using the Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale (CGI-S), Clinical Global Impression-Anxiety Scale (CGI-anxiety), and Clinical Global Impression-Sleep Scale (CGI-sleep). RESULTS: Among 180 patients, no differences in demographic characteristics among the three benzodiazepine groups were noted. After six weeks of treatment, all benzodiazepine groups showed significant improvements in CGI-S, CGI-anxiety, and CGI-sleep scores (p<0.001). There were no differences in mean changes in CGI-S, CGI-anxiety and CGI-sleep among the three benzodiazepine groups. The incidence of side effects was significantly lower in the clonazepam group than with the other benzodiazepines. The incidences of adverse events for the clonazepam, alprazolam, and lorazepam groups were 26.7% (n=20), 48.4% (n=31), and 43.9% (n=18), respectively. CONCLUSION: The present study suggests that clonazepam is as efficacious as other benzodiazepines for the treatment of various anxiety disorders. Furthermore, the safety profile of clonazepam was superior to the other benzodiazepines in this study.

Analysis of Deanxit-combined Treatment of Functional Dyspepsia / 昆明医科大学学报

Objective To investigate the improvement and safety of the conventional treatment combined with Deanxit in the treatment of digestive adverse (FD) of gastrointestinal symptoms and sleep efficacy.Methods Ninety cases of patients with FD were randomly divided into the control group (pantoprazole capsule and Mosapride will + Capsule associated with sleep disorders with estazolam tablets) and observation group (pantoprazole capsule and Mosapride will + capsule with sleep disorders and estazolam tablets plus Deanxit).Both groups were treated for 4 weeks.After the course of treatment,the improvement degree and adverse reaction of digestive tract symptoms and sleep were compared between the two groups.Results After 4 weeks of treatment in the observation group with gastrointestinal symptoms were improved and the total effective rate was 86.7％,higher than that of the control group (66.7％).The difference was statistically gigmificart (P ＜ 0.05).The total effective rate of was sleep disorders improvement 83.3％,higher than that of control group (61.9％),but the difference was not statistically significant (P ＞ 0.05).Adverse reaction rates were not significantly different between the two groups.Conclusion On the basis of conventional therapy,treatment of functional dyspepsia (FD) with Deanxit can significantly alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms.Medication after 3-7 days can relieve the symptoms.After 4 weeks,the total efficiency is the highest with fewer adverse reactions.Clinical application is recommended.