Characteristics and Trends in Hypnotics Consumption in the Largest Health Care System in Israel. (31st August 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Marom, O.; Rennert, G.; Stein, N.; Landsman, K.; Pillar, G.
• Other Names: Billiard Michel M. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Sleep disorders. Volume 2016(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-08-31
• Subjects: Sleep disorders -- Periodicals; 616.8498005
• DOI: 10.1155/2016/8032528
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-3545

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives . To quantify and characterize hypnotics consumption habits among adult patients insured by Clalit Health Services (CHS), the largest health care provider in Israel, in 2000 and 2010. Methods . A retrospective analysis of CHS computerized pharmacy records. Data were collected for all patients over the age of 18 years who were prescribed hypnotics in 2000 and in 2010. Results . Sleep medications were consumed by 8.7% of the adult CHS population in 2000 and by 9.6% in 2010. About one-quarter of consumers were treated for more than 6 months in both years. Multiple sleeping drugs were consumed more often in 2010 (45.2%) than a decade before (22%). While in 2000 benzodiazepines accounted for 84.5% of hypnotics, in 2010 this was reduced to 73.7% (p < 0.05 ). Of all patients treated for longer than 6 months only 11% in 2000 and 9% in 2010 required a dose escalation suggesting the absence of tolerance. Conclusions . Nine percent of the Israeli population consumes hypnotics. There is a major increase in prescription of combination of medications between 2000 and 2010, with an increase in Z class medications use and reduction in benzodiazepines. Most patients chronically treated did not escalate dosage, suggesting the absence of tolerance.