Reducing benzodiazepine use in older adults with acupuncture and yoga
Augmenting Benzodiazepine Receptor Agonist Deprescribing With Acupuncture and Yoga
This study is testing if a mix of acupuncture and yoga can help older adults cut back on their use of anxiety medications.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Vanderbilt University Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, Tennessee) |
| Trial ID | NCT06197243 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This 12-week intervention aims to help older adults reduce their use of benzodiazepine receptor agonists through a combination of medical provider visits for gradual medication reduction, acupuncture treatments, and private yoga classes. Participants will receive weekly visits at the Osher Center for Integrative Health, where they will engage in these combined therapies. Surveys will be administered before, during, and after the study to assess participants' experiences, and a focus group will be conducted at the end to gather further insights. The study will involve 30 older adults aged 65 and above who are currently taking benzodiazepines or related medications.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are older adults aged 65 and above who are currently taking benzodiazepines or related medications at least four times in the last month.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairment, uncontrolled psychiatric disorders, or those who consume excessive alcohol may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a holistic method for older adults to safely reduce their reliance on benzodiazepines, potentially improving their overall mental health and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While the combination of acupuncture and yoga for deprescribing benzodiazepines is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in using integrative health methods for managing anxiety and insomnia.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 65 years and older * Taking benzodiazepines or related medications (i.e. zolpidem, zopiclone, eszopiclone, zaleplon) at least 4 times in the last month * English speaking * Ability to understand study procedures and to comply with them for the length of the study Exclusion Criteria: * Cognitive impairment * Drinking more than 3 alcoholic beverages per day * Substance abuse disorder * Uncontrolled psychiatric disorder, such as major depression or psychosis * Inability or unwillingness of individual or legal guardian.representative to give written informed consent.
Where this trial is running
Nashville, Tennessee
- Osher Center for Integrative Health at Vanderbilt — Nashville, Tennessee, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Gurjeet Birdee — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Ana Bencomo Estevez
- Email: ana.bencomo.estevez@vumc.org
- Phone: (615)5861310
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.