Brief Review of Basic and Applied Research on Benzodiazepine Anxiolytics: Implications for the Treatment of Aggression in Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

Recent research in both the basic behavioral pharmacology literature and applied developmental disabilities literature suggests a relationship between increased aggression and the use of benzodiazepines, specifically anxiolytics. The purpose of this review is to tie together the findings on benzodiazepine anxiolytics from basic pharmacology research and applied research in developmental disabilities. The similarities and differences in the research in both areas will be reviewed. Implications for the treatment of aggression in those with developmental disabilities are discussed.