Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam

Which of the following would not be a proper use of benzodiazepines?

1. Long-term treatment for anxiety disorders

2. Short-term treatment of severe anxiety

3. Treatment for insomnia

4. Muscle relaxation therapy

The correct answer is: Long-term treatment for anxiety disorders

Long-term treatment for anxiety disorders is generally considered inappropriate due to the risk of dependence and tolerance that can develop with prolonged use of benzodiazepines. While benzodiazepines can be effective for short-term management of anxiety symptoms, using them as a long-term solution poses significant concerns. Patients may develop a tolerance to the effects, requiring higher doses to achieve the same outcome, which can lead to greater dependence on the medication. Furthermore, long-term use is associated with cognitive impairment and potential withdrawal symptoms when the medication is discontinued. In contrast, short-term treatment of severe anxiety, treatment for insomnia, and muscle relaxation therapy can all be appropriate uses of benzodiazepines. They can provide rapid relief for anxiety, assist with sleep disturbances, and help with muscle spasms, making them useful in specific, controlled situations.