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. 2024 May;21(5):457-463.
doi: 10.30773/pi.2023.0383. Epub 2024 May 23.

Association Between Hypnotics and Dementia: A Mini Narrative Review

Sung-Hoon Yoon  1   2 , Young-Chan Kim  1   2 , Ho Jun Seo  1   2 , Seung Chul Hong  1   2 , Tae Won Kim  1   2 , Jong-Hyun Jeong  1   2 , Yoo Hyun Um  1   2
Affiliations

Association Between Hypnotics and Dementia: A Mini Narrative Review

Sung-Hoon Yoon et al. Psychiatry Investig. 2024 May.

Abstract

Objective: This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the existing literature on the relationship between hypnotics and dementia, considering both potential link and inconclusive or lack of association.

Methods: Data from studies that investigate the association between hypnotic medications and dementia were reviewed. Studies included both cohort studies and systematic reviews, participants with various type of dementia and hypnotics including benzodiazepines (BZDs) and Z-drugs (ZDs).

Results: The existing literatures presents conflicting evidence regarding the association between hypnotics, including BZDs and ZDs, and the risk of dementia. Some studies suggest a potential link between prolonged use of hypnotics and an increased risk of dementia. However, other studies indicate inconclusive or lacking evidence regarding this association. Factors such as study design, sample characteristics, and control of confounding variables contribute to the variability in findings.

Conclusion: The relationship between hypnotics and dementia remains complex and controversial. While some studies suggest a potential association, others find inconclusive or conflicting evidence. Future research should focus on addressing methodological limitations, considering classifying dementia subtypes, and try to adjust medication lag time.

Keywords: Benzodiazepine; Cognitive decline; Dementia; Hypnotics; Sedatives.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of Interest

Yoo Hyun Um, a contributing editor of the Psychiatry Investigation, was not involved in the editorial evaluation or decision to publish this article. All remaining authors have declared no conflicts of interest.

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