Rising Addiction to Sedatives, Hypnotics, and Anxiolytics Among Teens and Young Adults
More teens and young adults are developing addiction or dependence on drugs prescribed to help them sleep, calm down, or manage anxiety. According to a research report published in Addiction, the prevalence of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use disorders (SHA-UD) increased three- to fivefold in adolescents and young adults between 2001 and 2019. The highest prevalence was observed among White men aged 18 to 29.
“Teens and young adults come in with stories that are eerily similar: They were prescribed a benzodiazepine or a sleep aid during a tough time — maybe it was finals week, a bad breakup, or the early signs of an anxiety disorder,” said Jasmine Sawhne, MD, MBA, a psychiatrist in private practice in New York and California. “What starts as a short-term solution too frequently enough becomes a crutch, and eventually, it spirals into dependency or misuse.”
characterized by important impairment or distress caused by substances like benzodiazepines, carbamates, and barbiturates. Extended use can lead to dependency, increased tolerance, and continued use despite negative consequences in school or personal life.
The study, led by ADHD, or sleep disorders—conditions often associated with these prescription drugs.
Diagnosis and Treatment
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when diagnosing SHA-UD, clinicians should ask patients how frequently enough they’ve attempted to decrease use, experience cravings, or face withdrawal symptoms, said Zishan Khan, MD, a psychiatrist with Mindpath Health. “Some patients report difficulties with memory or coordination while intoxicated with these drugs,” he noted. Clinicians should also inquire about other substance use, such as alcohol, cocaine, or marijuana.
| Key Findings | Details |
|——————|————-|
| Prevalence Increase | 3-5x increase in SHA-UD diagnoses (2001-2019) |
| Most Affected Group | White men aged 18-29 |
| Highest Increase | Black and Hispanic Medicaid enrollees |
| Associated Conditions | Anxiety disorders, ADHD, sleep disorders |
The findings underscore the need for clinicians to monitor patients prescribed benzodiazepines, z-hypnotics, or barbiturates closely. As Bushnell emphasized, “Although SHA-UD is less common than other substance use disorders, it’s crucial to pay special attention to those at risk.”
This alarming trend highlights the importance of early intervention and education to prevent the misuse of these medications. For more information on Key Insights on Substance use Disorders and Treatment
| Aspect | Details | Understanding the nuances of substance use disorders and their treatment is vital for clinicians. By fostering trust, offering alternatives, and carefully monitoring patients, healthcare providers can make a significant impact.For more information on managing addiction, visit the National Institute on drug Abuse. Editor: Dr. Khan, what should clinicians focus on when diagnosing sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use disorders (SHA-UD)? Dr. Khan: Clinicians should ask patients about their frequency of attempts to reduce use, experiences with cravings, and withdrawal symptoms. Additionally,it’s crucial to inquire about other substance use,such as alcohol,cocaine,or marijuana. Many patients also report memory or coordination issues while intoxicated with these drugs. Editor: Are there specific groups more affected by SHA-UD? Dr. Khan: Yes, teh data shows a 3-5x increase in SHA-UD diagnoses between 2001 and 2019. White men aged 18-29 are the most affected group,but there’s also a meaningful rise among Black and Hispanic Medicaid enrollees. Editor: What are the most common co-occurring disorders in patients with substance use disorders? Dr. Khan: Among adolescents, cannabis use disorder is prevalent, affecting 61.9% of cases. For young adults, opioid use disorder tops the list at 66.6%. Many patients also struggle with anxiety disorders, ADHD, or sleep disorders, highlighting the need for thorough evaluations. Editor: how should clinicians manage withdrawal symptoms in these cases? Dr. Khan: treatment begins with managing withdrawal symptoms, which vary based on the severity of addiction. Primary care clinicians can handle milder cases, but severe instances, especially benzodiazepine withdrawal, may require hospitalization or IV medication to prevent seizures or death. Editor: How can clinicians build trust with patients struggling with substance use? Dr. Sawhne: Young adults often feel defensive or ashamed about their medication use. Judgment shuts them down,so I create a safe space for open discussions about their struggles. I also educate them on how sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic drugs work and recommend alternatives like buspirone, which has a lower dependency risk. Editor: What precautions should clinicians take when prescribing medications? Dr. Khan: Clinicians should avoid addictive drugs like alprazolam or lorazepam whenever possible. When transitioning patients to nonaddictive drugs,it’s essential to discuss the potential delay in effectiveness. Careful monitoring is necessary to ensure symptoms are adequately managed. Diagnosing and treating substance use disorders requires a comprehensive approach. Clinicians should focus on understanding patients’ struggles, managing withdrawal symptoms, and transitioning to safer medications. Building trust and careful monitoring are essential to effective care. For more information, consult resources like the National Institute on Drug Abuse and trusted healthcare professionals.
|———————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Most Common Co-Occurring Disorders | Adolescents: Cannabis Use Disorder (61.9%)
Young Adults: Opioid Use Disorder (66.6%) |
| Withdrawal Management | Severe cases may require hospitalization or IV medication |
| Choice Medications | Buspirone recommended for lower dependency risk |
| Prescribing Caution | Avoid addictive drugs like alprazolam and lorazepam |
| Patient Monitoring | Essential when transitioning to nonaddictive drugs |Expert Insights on Diagnosing and Treating Substance Use Disorders
Understanding SHA-UD and Co-Occurring Conditions
Co-Occurring Disorders and Treatment Approaches
Building Trust and Transitioning to Nonaddictive Medications
Conclusion
