[Proper and improper use of benzodiazepines].

Benzodiazepines are one of the most frequent treatments prescribed by the general practitioner, and anxiety disorders are one of the most important motives for consultation. Actually, benzodiazepines are effective and generally well-tolerated. Nevertheless, the existence of adverse reactions such as dependence in addition to the importance of French consumption of benzodiazepines, necessitate the evaluation of good and bad use of benzodiazepines. Pharmacological specificities of benzodiazepines will be proposed in order to outline adverse reactions and contraindications. The authors will describe prescription modalities for benzodiazepines, in order to specify indications and how to get the best posology, frequency and length of treatment.