Benzodiazepines (Diazepam)

Overview

In the UK, prescribing of Diazepam is governed by national clinical guidance (NICE) and local NHS prescribing policies. The overall approach is deliberately cautious because Diazepam is a benodiazepine with risks of dependence, tolerance, and misuse.

When we MIGHT prescribe

  • you are in an acute crisis (e.g. panic, severe distress)
  • short-term bridging while waiting for therapy
  • Managing alcohol withdrawal safely
  • Specific medical conditions

It remains the prescribers discretion whether to prescribe benzodiazepines. Please respect their decision.

When we WON'T prescribe

  • for long-term anxiety or stress
  • continue prescriptions started elsewhere without a review
  • provide repeat prescriptions without reassessment
  • prescribe on patient request along without clinical justification
  • fear of flying
  • dental examinations and/or procedures

Diazepam for Fear of Flying

Risk Category Explanation
Safety on Flights Diazepam is a powerful sedative. If an emergency occurs, it would impair your ability to concentrate, follow instructions, or react quickly. The Cabin Crew are there to guide, but you are responsible for your own safe evacuation. Many airlines consider sedated passengers a risk and may refuse you boarding.
Increased Blood Clot Risk Sedatives can induce an unnatural, non-REM sleep where your movements are reduced. This significantly increases your risk of developing dangerous blood clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis – DVT) or Pulmonary Embolism (PE), especially on flights over 4 hours long.
Breathing Problems The air pressure change during flying naturally reduces your blood oxygen levels. Diazepam works by depressing your breathing, which can dangerously increase the risk of excessively low blood oxygen (hypoxia).
Paradoxical Reaction For a small number of people, Diazepam causes the opposite of sedation—leading to aggression, agitation, disinhibition, or confusion. This is unpredictable and can lead to serious trouble with the law, including detention or arrest upon landing.
International Law Diazepam and similar drugs are illegal Class C controlled substances in several countries (e.g., Japan, Greece, and many Middle Eastern countries including the UAE). Carrying them, even with a UK prescription, could lead to confiscation, fines, or arrest.

 

Page last reviewed: 24 April 2026
Page created: 24 April 2026