Changes in Cognitive Function during Psychogeriatric Treatment in Relation to Benzodiazepine Cessation

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate cognitive functions after admission to a geriatric psychiatric hospital, and to study the short-term effects of cessation of benzodiazepine use on cognitive functions.

Methods: Details of benzodiazepine use and serum concentration measurements were recorded on admission. The Hopkins verbal learning test, the Stroop test, Digit Vigilance Test and the Mini Mental Status Examination were performed on admission, and after 4 weeks of hospitalization. Test results were compared for the total group of patients, as well as for benzodiazepine “continuers” and the “quitters”.

Results: For all patients (n=224), improved performances were observed in 10 out of 12 cognitive tests. Significant improvements were seen in 4 out of 12 tests. Benzodiazepine “quitters” improved significantly more than the “continuers” (p=0.027) only on the Hopkins verbal learning test, delayed recall performance.

Discussion: Among elderly psychiatric patients, cognitive function improved slightly during the 4 weeks of hospital treatment, but only for one of the memory tests, the improvement was related to the cessation of benzodiazepine treatment.

Key words

elderly - geriatric psychiatry - drug use - cognitive function - benzodiazepines

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