Understanding the risks of benzodiazepine use in young people
Benzodiazepine-related harms in young people: Informing policy, interventions, and prescribing
This study is looking into how young people are misusing benzodiazepines and the health risks that come with it, so we can find better ways to keep them safe and improve how these medications are prescribed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11031313 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the misuse and abuse of benzodiazepines among young people, focusing on the health risks associated with these medications. It aims to identify the factors contributing to benzodiazepine-related harms and develop policies and practices that can help mitigate these risks. The research will involve analyzing existing data on benzodiazepine prescriptions and their effects on adolescents and young adults, as well as evaluating state-level policies related to substance use. By understanding these dynamics, the study seeks to inform better prescribing practices and interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults who have been prescribed benzodiazepines or are at risk of misuse.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use benzodiazepines or are outside the age range of adolescents and young adults may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety and reduced harm from benzodiazepine use in young people.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing prescription drug misuse through policy changes can lead to significant improvements in patient safety, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bushnell, Greta — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Bushnell, Greta
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.