Benzodiazepine and Z drug prescribing policy
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Hypnotics & anxiolytics (benzodiazepines & z-drugs) will only be prescribed in line with national & locally guidelines. They have a number of serious side effects including;
- Falls
- Memory & mood problems
- Addiction & dependence
- Dementia
- Increased risk of accidents (especially whilst driving)
- Death
- First line treatments should always be non-pharmacological
- For patients who have not received these drugs regularly, clinicians will only prescribe hypnotics & anxiolytics for a maximum of 7 days at the lowest effective dose.
- Lost prescriptions / medications will not be replaced
- Patients currently on hypnotics or anxiolytics will be informed that they will be placed on a withdrawal regimen (unless indicated long term) when they register with the practice.
Indications for which medication will not be prescribed by GP
- Fear of flying
- Dental procedures
- Hospital procedures or investigations
- Acute anxiety of other causes
- Alcohol detox
References
- Refer patients to the NHS Choices information on insomnia. http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Insomnia/Pages/Prevention.aspx
- Refer patients to the Royal College of Psychiatrists sleeping well leaflet www.rcpsych.ac.uk/healthadvice/problemsdisorders/sleepingwell.aspx