Benzodiazepines and hypnosedatives may increase the risk of pneumonia

A recent review suggests that people currently or recently treated with benzodiazepines may have an increased risk of developing pneumonia. The research categorised usage into current exposure (within 30 days), recent use (within 31-90 days), and past use (beyond 90 days). Benzodiazepine use was significantly associated with increased risk for pneumonia in an analysis of all studies included in the analysis, and short- and intermediate-acting benzodiazepines were associated with a significantly increased risk for pneumonia, especially diazepam, lorazepam, temazepam, and zopiclone. Compared to people who had never taken benzodiazepines, the pooled odds ratio for the risk for pneumonia was 1.4 in current users and 1.38 in recent users, but 1.11 in past users. More food for thought, especially with respect to older people such as those living in aged care facilities. More here