Sleeping pills are often used for too long, according to research by FAMHP

Between February and May 2020, the FAMHP interviewed more than eight hundred patients online about the use of benzodiazepines and related medicines for sleep disorders. The survey was conducted among adult patients who are not in a hospital or residential care facility. The results cannot simply be extrapolated to all Belgian patients, but according to the FAMHP they have revealed clear points for attention.

For example, a high degree of misuse is reported. Most of the patients surveyed have been using their sleeping pills for more than a year, although chronic use is not recommended. However, only a minority of patients take more than the recommended dose. More than a third of the patients surveyed also show psychological signs of dependence. Almost half of them find it very difficult or impossible to stop.

The survey shows that the treatment duration recommendations are not followed by patients, nor by healthcare professionals who continue to prescribe the sleeping pills.

Discuss risks

The FAMHP also reminds that the sleeping pills can lead to disorders of the nervous system and psychiatric disorders, among other things. They also increase the risk of falls in the elderly.

The drug agency is now encouraging health care professionals to discuss those risks with patients before prescribing the sleep aid. It is also advised to schedule another consultation after one week of use to discuss the effectiveness of the treatment and any side effects. There is also a plea to prescribe smaller packaging. In this way, patients are encouraged to come back for consultation if they wish to continue treatment.

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