Benzodiazepines for Fear of Flying

St Austell Healthcare are unable to prescribe benzodiazepines (like diazepam) to patients dealing with fear of flying. Many other GP practices share a similar approach.

• Benzodiazepines are sedative medications that raise safety concerns.

         - If these drugs make you drowsy, your reflexes might slow down, hindering your ability to respond promptly during a flight emergency.
        - Drowsiness can lead to reduced movement and prolonged sitting, increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (blood clot) in the legs or even lungs, 
          with potentially severe or deadly outcomes.

• These medications can cause respiratory depression, slowing down breathing, which becomes risky due to the already lowered oxygen levels at high altitudes.
  

• There's a chance that benzodiazepines can induce agitation and confusion, posing risks to fellow passengers.
  

• In the UK, these drugs are controlled and regulated, necessitating safe prescription practices:
  

       - The use of benzodiazepines for treating phobias (such as fear of flying) is contraindicated, meaning it's not allowed. This advice is in line with the
          British National Formulary (BNF), a manual providing drug information.
       - They are only meant for severe or incapacitating anxiety, and we would not recommend flying in this situation.

• It's important to note that benzodiazepines are illegal in some countries, meaning taking them abroad could lead to legal consequences.
  

• Combining these drugs with alcohol, which might be accessible before or during a flight, is not advisable.
  

 
We understand that patients may genuinely experience fear of flying. Some major UK-based airlines offer "Fear of Flying" programs that you might want to explore.

We appreciate your understanding regarding this matter.