Benzodiazepines Webinar Insights and Guidelines
Explore recent data on benzodiazepine-related deaths, prescribing practices, and guidelines discussed in a webinar by Dr. Jeffrey Fehler, shedding light on the current landscape, concerns, and recommendations for managing benzodiazepine use. Learn about variations in prescribing, typical guidelines, and the importance of holistic management in addressing addiction risks.
Download Presentation
Please find below an Image/Link to download the presentation.
The content on the website is provided AS IS for your information and personal use only. It may not be sold, licensed, or shared on other websites without obtaining consent from the author. If you encounter any issues during the download, it is possible that the publisher has removed the file from their server.
You are allowed to download the files provided on this website for personal or commercial use, subject to the condition that they are used lawfully. All files are the property of their respective owners.
The content on the website is provided AS IS for your information and personal use only. It may not be sold, licensed, or shared on other websites without obtaining consent from the author.
E N D
Presentation Transcript
Benzodiazepines - Webinar Dr Jeffrey Fehler Consultant Addictions Psychiatrist Clinical Director, Addictions Directorate
Benzos and analogues ONS (2021, England and Wales) Increasing numbers of drug deaths involving benzodiazepines in 2021 (a rise of 13% cf 2020, but that was 19% rise cf. 2019)
CNWL scoping exercise BDZs, 2021 No increase in numbers seen during pandemic All used other substances Decrease in 2020-21 in 4/5 services - probably reflecting service provision during pandemic Broad consensus (but not all) that illicit BDZ use is more prevalent than is recorded or known by services Common views by clinicians of clients under- reporting illicit and prescribed BDZ Some reports of over-reporting Diazepam remains illicit BDZ of choice Alprazolam use increasing MIXED PICTURE
CNWL scoping exercise, 2021 Prescribing Variations broadly (but not always) based on lead clinician philosophy, commissioning policy , role of CNWL in partnership OPTIONS: No prescribing at all - referred to GP Limited prescribing: e.g. complex clients, cases too complex for GP to manage BDZ prescribing for all dependence
Typical BDZ/Hypnotic Guidelines Use lowest BDZ/hypnotic dose for briefest time, e.g. 2-4 weeks Use only 1 BDZ Dose used should be in therapeutic range (i.e. within BNF limits) Only use in acute self-limiting situations/conditions Only use for severe symptoms (never mild symptoms) Reduce gradually after long term use Do not use in those with a history of addiction BUT I DO FEEL THIS IS OUR BUSINESS WHEN ADDICTION DEVELOPS
Next Steps Education - holistic management Some form of uniformity in approach Attitude change Collective ownership My Email: jeffrey.fehler@nhs.net
