As part of a review of our prescribing practices, and in line with national guidance and policies adopted by many GP practices, we no longer prescribe benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam) or other sedatives for
- Medical procedures (e.g., MRI scans or dental work) or any other medical procedures
- Fear of flying
Medical Procedures
We do not prescribe sedatives such as diazepam for scans (including MRIs) or medical/dental procedures.
- Sedation during procedures must be managed by the clinician or department performing the test.
- GPs are not trained or equipped to safely assess and monitor sedation levels.
- Sedation may interfere with your safety during the procedure or delay it altogether.
- Radiology and other hospital departments must be informed of and manage any sedative use.
If you feel anxious about a scan or procedure, please speak with the team that requested it—they are responsible for managing any required sedation.
For dental or minor surgical procedures, any sedation needed must be arranged by the dentist or surgeon, not your GP.
Fear of Flying
We do not prescribe diazepam or similar medications for fear of flying. This decision is based on safety concerns and current medical guidelines.
- Benzodiazepines impair coordination and reaction times, increasing risks during flights and emergencies.
- They can cause agitation or disinhibition in some individuals.
- They increase the risk of dangerous blood clots (DVT) due to immobility.
- Use alongside alcohol or other substances increases risks further.
- These medications are not recommended for mild anxiety or phobic states in national prescribing guidelines.
- Importing benzodiazepines is illegal in some countries, risking confiscation or arrest.
If you struggle with flight anxiety, we recommend specialist courses offered by airlines:
- EasyJet “Fearless Flyer” – easyjet.com | 0203 813 1644
- British Airways “Flying with Confidence” – flyingwithconfidence.com | 01252 793 250
- Virgin Atlantic “Flying Without Fear” – flyingwithoutfear.co.uk | 01423 714 900
Prescribing diazepam for flight anxiety is not part of standard NHS GP services. If you still wish to pursue this option, you may consider seeing a private GP or travel clinic.
Always declare medications and conditions to your travel insurer, as failure to do so may invalidate your cover.