What is the safest benzodiazepine to use in an elderly patient?

⚪ Clinical pearl: When a benzodiazepine is necessary for an elderly patient, lorazepam is often the preferred choice. Its pharmacokinetics are advantageous in this population. Lorazepam does not have significant hepatic drug interactions (remember the LOT benzos) and its metabolites do not accumulate, reducing the risk of prolonged sedation. In contrast, a benzodiazepine with a long half-life like clonazepam is less ideal, as its accumulation can increase the risk of falls and cognitive impairment.

🔗 To learn more about this pearl, check out the Carlat Article: https://www.thecarlatreport.com/articles/4033-benzodiazepines-a-reevaluation-of-their-benefits-and-dangers