Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Benzodiazepine Abuse
(CSTARS Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to assist individuals who have been using benzodiazepines (medications often prescribed for anxiety or sleep issues) long-term. It combines a gradual reduction in medication with cognitive behavioral therapy, a talk therapy that targets negative thought patterns. The goal is to determine if this approach can help individuals safely reduce their drug use. Suitable participants have been prescribed benzodiazepines by their primary care doctor at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and do not exhibit severe anxiety or depression symptoms. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore new methods for managing long-term benzodiazepine use.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial involves a benzodiazepine deprescribing intervention, which means you will likely need to reduce or stop taking your benzodiazepine medication as part of the study.
What prior data suggests that this cognitive-behavioral therapy-enhanced intervention is safe for older adults?
Research has shown that gradually reducing benzodiazepine use, combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is generally well-tolerated by patients. Studies have found that CBT helps people reduce benzodiazepines more effectively and safely. For instance, patients often experience fewer withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety and trouble sleeping, when CBT is part of their treatment plan.
Evidence from past research also suggests that while some risks exist, they are usually minor. Most people do not experience severe side effects during the tapering process when CBT is used. This approach supports patients both mentally and physically, aiding their adjustment as they reduce medication.
Overall, this treatment appears safe and helps people manage their medication use more effectively over time.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike standard treatments for benzodiazepine abuse, which often focus solely on medication tapering, this approach combines a benzodiazepine taper with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This dual approach is unique because it not only helps to reduce the physical dependence on the medication but also addresses the psychological aspects of addiction. Researchers are excited about this treatment because CBT can provide patients with coping strategies and behavioral changes that support long-term success, potentially enhancing the overall effectiveness of the tapering process. This integration of therapeutic techniques could lead to more comprehensive recovery outcomes for individuals struggling with benzodiazepine abuse.
What evidence suggests that this treatment might be an effective treatment for benzodiazepine abuse?
Research has shown that using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alongside a gradual reduction in benzodiazepine use helps many people stop taking these medications. In this trial, participants will receive a Benzodiazepine Medication Taper combined with CBT. One study found that three out of four people successfully stopped using benzodiazepines with CBT. Additionally, CBT offers benefits beyond just reducing medication use, enhancing its effectiveness. Another study reported a 90% decrease in the amount and an 80% decrease in the frequency of benzodiazepine use with CBT. Overall, combining CBT with a gradual reduction plan yields promising results in reducing dependence on benzodiazepines.14678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Gloria Yeh, MD
Principal Investigator
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for older adults (65+) who have been prescribed benzodiazepines long-term by their primary care doctors at BIDMC Healthcare Associates Clinic. It's not suitable for those whose doctors opt out or patients with severe anxiety or depression.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo a benzodiazepine tapering program enhanced with brief cognitive behavioral therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for sustainability of benzodiazepine dose reduction and other outcomes
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Benzodiazepine Medication Taper with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
University of California, San Francisco
Collaborator
University of Pittsburgh
Collaborator