Evaluation of benzodiazepine treatment on quality of life in acute coronary patients

Abstract

Introduction: Based on studies, benzodiazepines cause to reduction of morbidity in patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of clonazepam, lorazepam and oxazepam on the reduction of anxiety and improvement of quality of life (QOL) during acute coronary care in these patients. Materials and Methods: Patients were recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. 40 cases who did not receive benzodiazepines as control and 40 patients who received one of alprazolam, clonazepam, and oxazepam as intervention group were entered the study. All patients were compared regarding anxiety and QOL using Hamilton (HAM-A) and QOLS scales at the time of admission and discharge. Results: In this study, 80 patients with acute coronary syndrome were enrolled and divided into case and control groups. Anxiety was significantly lower in the group receiving benzodiazepines than in the control group. The quality of life was also significantly better in the benzodiazepine group than the control group. Conclusion: The use of benzodiazepines in patients with ACS can reduce their anxiety and improve their quality of life.