Sedative Prescription Policy

Cheddar Medical Centre does not prescribe sedating medications, such as diazepam, for:

  • Dental procedures
  • MRI scans or other investigations
  • Fear of flying (flight anxiety)

This approach is based on national guidance, patient safety considerations, and prescribing responsibilities.

Dental Procedures

GPs will not issue prescriptions for sedating medications prior to dental treatment.

  • Dentists are trained and responsible for managing anxiety related to dental procedures.
  • If sedation is clinically appropriate, the dentist must prescribe it themselves.
  • Dentists are able to prescribe diazepam and similar medications via the BNF Dental Practitioners’ Formulary.
  • NHS dental prescriptions should be issued on an FP14D form; private patients will receive a private prescription.

Dentists may contact the GP for relevant medical information if required (e.g. complex medical history).

MRI Scans and Claustrophobia

GPs will not prescribe sedatives for MRI scans or similar procedures.

  • Sedation for imaging should be arranged by the hospital or radiology department, where:
    • Appropriate assessment can be undertaken
    • Monitoring can be provided during the procedure
  • National guidance recommends sedation is delivered by a trained and appropriately equipped team.

If you feel unable to proceed with a scan due to anxiety or claustrophobia:

  • Please contact the referring team or radiology department, who can discuss appropriate support options (including sedation if needed).

Fear of Flying

Cheddar Medical Centre does not prescribe diazepam or similar medications for flight anxiety.

This is because:

  • Fear of flying does not fall within NHS GP contractual services
  • National prescribing guidance (BNF and NICE) advises:
    • Benzodiazepines are not appropriate for short-term mild anxiety or phobias
  • There are significant safety and legal considerations, including:
    • Reduced awareness and slower reaction time in an emergency
    • Risk of drowsiness, confusion, or paradoxical agitation
    • Increased risk of blood clots (DVT) on long flights
    • Potential interactions with alcohol
    • Risk of dependence and withdrawal effects

Additionally:

  • Some countries restrict or prohibit these medications
  • Travel insurance may be invalidated if medication is not declared

Recommended alternatives

We recommend non-medication approaches, including:

  • Airline-led fear of flying courses:

Fear of flying course | Fearless Flyer

https://www.britishairways.com/content/information/travel-assistance/flying-with-confidence

  • Behavioural therapies such as CBT