BBWs of Anxiety Medications

Question 1

BBW for BZDs

Answer 1

Concomitant use with opiates- may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death

Question 2

BBW for ADs

Answer 2

Increased suicidality for patients 18-24 years of age

Question 3

Caveat for AD BBW

Answer 3

Suicide risk can appear in anyone at any age- so still counsel them about the risks and provide resources!

Question 4

BBW for APS

Answer 4

Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis

Question 5

Caveat for APS BBW

Answer 5

If the patient has schizophrenia- the schizo should be treated! The BBW doesn’t mean not to use APS because APS are the only options for dementia-related psychosis, so start on low doses, monitor side effects, make sure benefits > risks

Question 6

AED BBW?

Answer 6

There’s no BBW for AEDs, but consider the potential for suicide risk