Use of benzodiazepines, z-hypnotics and antidepressants among hip fracture patients in Finland. Consistency between recorded and detected benzodiazepines

Abstract Purpose We described the use of benzodiazepines (BZDs), z-hypnotics, and antidepressants; analyzed the consistency between recorded and detected BZDs among hip fracture patients admitted to two Finnish hospitals during one year; and compared the results with corresponding results from 12 years earlier. Methods Current use of medication was obtained from the National Prescription Register. Urine and blood samples used to detect BZD were taken during admission. The following Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classes were included: BZDs: N05BA, N05CD; z-hypnotics: N05CF; and antidepressants: N06A.The presence of BZDs in urine was analyzed using immunoassay. Positive BZDs were confirmed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. BZDs in serum were analyzed using liquid chromatography. Concordance between recorded and detected BZDs was calculated with kappa (κ) and described using a Venn diagram. Results A total of 245 patients were enrolled in the study. BZD was detected in 18 %. Kappa was 0.39 (95 % CI 0.25−0.53). Overlap of detected and recorded BZDs was 59 %. According to the prescription register, 18 % used z-hypnotics, and according to both the detection of BZDs and register, 49 % used BZDs and/or z-hypnotics. 22 % used antidepressants and 15 % used combinations of the studied drugs concomitantly. Conclusion Use rate of BZDs and/or z-hypnotics was similar to that 12 years ago. No difference in the consistency between our previous and present study was found either. All studied drugs and their concomitant use increase the risk for fractures. In the elderly, point prevalence of medication and appropriateness should be regularly assessed.