The misuse of benzodiazepines continues to be a significant issue in Irish society and doctors must accept their role in this problem, June Shannon reports.
In 2002 a report compiled by the Benzodiazepine Committee found that over one in 10 GMS patients was being prescribed benzodiazepines. The prescribing and misuse of these drugs were, according to the report, “significant health issues in Ireland”.
Almost a decade later, figures suggest that prescribing frequency, use and deaths from benzodiazepine abuse have increased in Ireland.
Just last week the Minister of State Roisín Shortall announced a new initiative to tackle overprescribing of the drugs.
Benzodiazepines are one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the world. While generally considered safe and effective for short-term use in the treatment of anxiety, insomnia and seizures, the risk of overuse, abuse and dependence remains a key concern.
Source: June Shannon, Medical Independent, 30/06/2011
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