Benzodiazepines or related medicines

In 2017, the HAS (France) issued general recommendations for the prescription of benzodiazepines or related medicines:

Before starting treatment:

• Take the time to understand the patient’s problems and expectations, and where possible, suggest non-pharmacological solutions
• When prescribing a benzodiazepine or a related medication, fully inform the patient of the risks associated with the treatment (adverse effects, dependence and withdrawal symptoms)
• Prescribe the smallest available pack size
• Arrange a follow-up consultation after one week of use
• Adhere to the prescription durations specified in the marketing authorisation

If the patient has already been on treatment for more than 30 days, or when requesting a renewal of treatment:

• Take the time to discuss with them how their treatment is going
• Suggest a strategy for tapering off or stopping their treatment (see tools below)
• Provide them with the documentation, if they wish to read it at a later date