Benzodiazepine prescribing in the elderly in Germany and Korea: A comparison of two observational studies

Objectives: To identify differences and similarities in benzodiazepine (BZD) prescribing patterns in elderly patients reported in two separate and independent investigations, one from Germany for the year 2014 and the other from Korea for the year 2013. Methods: Data on patients over 65 years, who were prescribed at least one BZD, were obtained from population databases. The design and characteristics of the two studies were similar. Results: The use of BZDs in the elderly in Korea was severalfold higher than in Germany depending on the age stratification. Sleep disorders and depression were less common indications for BZDs in Korea. The use of long-acting BZDs in both countries was higher in patients attending general practitioners compared to specialized hospital departments and clinics. In Korea, diazepam was the most commonly used BZD in general practice. In Germany, lorazepam was the most commonly used BZD both in general practice and neuropsychiatric clinics. Conclusions: The results of this comparison show that a reduction in the use of BZDs in the elderly in Korea may be possible and that in Germany, in some instances, these drugs may be under-used in this patient group. This cross-national comparison may help to reduce inappropriate use of BZD medication and improve prescribing in the elderly but this would have to be the subjects of a more detailed analysis.