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Benzodiazepine deprescribing — DGM MCQ

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EasyPolypharmacyBenzodiazepine deprescribingDGM

A 79-year-old woman reports daytime sedation and two falls after bereavement-related insomnia. She has been taking a sleeping tablet for three months. Cognition fluctuates during the day but observations are normal. Current medicines include temazepam, lansoprazole and levothyroxine. Which medication should be reviewed?

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Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Temazepam

Temazepam increases sedation, cognitive impairment and falls risk, so it should be reviewed and tapered where appropriate. Lansoprazole, levothyroxine, paracetamol and calcium carbonate are less likely to cause this pattern. Deprescribing sedatives requires gradual reduction and sleep-behaviour support.

Reference: STOPP/START criteria v3; NICE NG56; BNF