SAMHSA has released a Dear Colleague Letter offering guidance on benzodiazepine (BZD) use in older adults. Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed for anxiety and insomnia, but older adults face higher risks of adverse events from long-term use, including falls, cognitive decline, and drug interactions. The letter highlights the public health importance of reducing long-term benzodiazepine use among older adults and promotes patient-centered, evidence-informed strategies for evaluating ongoing BZD use.
