5th June 2025
This is an important information regarding your current prescription for benzodiazepines or Z-drugs. These medications can be helpful for short-term relief of anxiety and sleep difficulties. However, when used over a longer period, they may lead to a number of potential side effects and health risks, including:
- Tolerance (meaning the medication becomes less effective over time)
- Increased risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms
- Memory and concentration problems
- Reduced coordination, increasing the risk of falls and accidents
- Drowsiness and fatigue during the day
- Mood changes or emotional blunting
- In older adults, a higher risk of confusion and dementia-like symptoms
We want to ensure you are fully informed so you can make the best decisions about your health. If you are concerned about your medication, or if you have been using it for longer than a few weeks, we encourage you to book an appointment with us to review your treatment.
There are often alternative options including talking therapies, lifestyle adjustments, and safer medications which we’d be happy to explore with you.
Your health and wellbeing are our priority, and we are here to support you.
