The authors critically reviewed the literature on benzodiazepine use
among alcoholics, psychiatric patients, and the general population to
determine whether alcoholics have a greater liability for benzodiazepine
abuse. Data suggest that the prevalence of benzodiazepine use among
alcoholics is greater than in the general population but comparable to the
prevalence in psychiatric patients. The liability for abuse may also be
greater for alcoholics, but the substantial methodologic deficiencies of
existing studies preclude such a conclusion. Given the frequency of anxiety
disorders and benzodiazepine use among alcoholics, their potential for
benzodiazepine abuse is an important issue. The authors discuss clinical
guidelines and strategies for future research.Abstract Teaser