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Rapid response to:

Research

Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer’s disease: case-control study

BMJ 2014; 349 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.g5205 (Published 09 September 2014) Cite this as: BMJ 2014;349:g5205

Rapid Response:

I have been prescribed generic Xanax for about 9 years, at dosage between 5mg and 1mg/day. I am 45.
This study is clearly alarming, and honestly terrifying.

How are my odds of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's figured?
I can only imagine that I am in increased likelihood of about 8,000%.
Based on the 3-6 month likelihood rates.

My doctor says, "Just keep taking it. Benefits outweigh the risks." Clearly, they do not! I have not slept nor eaten well since I read the study.
Can anyone explain the likelihood ratios that are mentioned?
And is there evidence of the disease showing up in younger people after taking benzos for years?

Any help, and perspective at all would be so very much appreciated!

Competing interests: No competing interests

16 September 2014
Connie C Ward
Admin Asst
Pittsford NY 14534