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Advice for Patients Requesting Sedatives

For Dental Procedures, MRI Scans, and Flying

 

Dental Procedures

GPs do not prescribe sedative medications such as diazepam for dental treatment.

If sedation is needed, your dentist is the person who should prescribe it. Dentists are allowed to prescribe diazepam (tablets or oral solution) when appropriate, as listed in the BNF Dental Practitioners’ Formulary.

  • For NHS dental care, dentists must use an FP14D prescription form.
  • For private dental care, a private prescription should be issued.

If you have a complex medical history, your dentist may contact your GP for advice or additional information.

Claustrophobia and MRI Scans

GPs do not prescribe sedatives for anxiety related to MRI scans.

Claustrophobia prevents millions of MRI scans worldwide each year. Many people find it helpful to look at online resources that explain the procedure, including videos and step-by-step guides.

While the NHS notes that mild sedation can sometimes be used for severe anxiety, the Royal College of Radiologists advises that sedation must be given by a trained team, with proper assessment, planning, and monitoring. This means that GPs are not able to provide sedation for MRI scans.

If you feel you may need sedation, please discuss this directly with the radiology department arranging your scan.

Flight Anxiety

GPs no longer prescribe diazepam or similar medications for flight anxiety. This is for both clinical and legal reasons.

 

Clinical and Legal Reasons

  • Flight anxiety is not covered by NHS General Medical Services. If you wish to explore medication, you may consult a private GP or travel clinic.
  • Benzodiazepines can affect memory, coordination, concentration, and reaction time, and they can be addictive.
  • Diazepam is a controlled drug.
  • The BNF states that benzodiazepines should not be used for phobias or mild, short-term anxiety.
  • Diazepam is only licensed for short-term treatment of generalised anxiety crises, not fear of flying.
  • NHS guidance advises against prescribing medication solely for issues that might arise while abroad.
 

Safety Concerns During Flight

  • Sedation reduces alertness and reaction time, which could be dangerous in an emergency.
  • Sedative-induced non-REM sleep increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially on longer flights.
  • A small number of people experience the opposite effect-agitation, aggression, or disinhibition-which can cause safety or legal problems on board.
  • Regular use of benzodiazepines can prevent natural adjustment to anxiety, potentially worsening fear of flying over time.
  • Diazepam is illegal in some countries and may be confiscated, or you may face legal issues.
  • It can affect drug tests, driving after landing, and may need to be declared to your travel insurer.

If you need help managing dental anxiety, MRI claustrophobia, or fear of flying, please speak to your healthcare provider. They can guide you toward non-sedative options and specialist services that may be more effective and safer.

You can find further information and helpful courses in the links below.