USE OF BENZODIAZEPINES IN STRATEGY FAMILY HEALTH: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Abstract

It is a qualitative study aimed to discuss how the practice of prescription, dispensation and use of benzodiazepines in the Family Health Strategy occurs in the municipality of the state of Bahia, Brazil. It was used as a technique for data collection semi-structured interview applied to three groups of subjects (users, prescribers and dispensers of pharmacies). The results showed that there are no institutional protocols relating to prescribing and dispensing in the Family Health Units, with divergence in the use of benzodiazepines related practices. Access to therapeutic alternative to the use of benzodiazepines, and training of health workers were identified as a need of the service. The dispensation differs from existing laws, this function being performed by nursing staff and in the absence of pharmacists. These aspects have contributed to the lack of information and education users as well as the indiscriminate and excessive use of these drugs. Changes in the practice of workers and their relation with the health needs of the users can be decisive for bringing about change that reality.