A possible association between the use of benzodiazepine and non-benzodiazepine (‘Z-drug’) hypnotics and an increased risk of pneumonia in people with Alzheimer’s disease has been assessed in an observational study conducted in Finland.¹ Although previous studies have suggested a link, results have been inconclusive. Benzodiazepine prescribing is common in people with Alzheimer’s, despite concerns over the effect these drugs may have on cognitive function.^2-4

Using a national registry, the study authors identified 49,484 eligible community dwelling people with a recent diagnosis of …