Tranquillisers

Date: 14 March 2006

Tranquillisers

The use of tranquillisers and sleeping pills is a real issue for women.

Women and tranquillisers and sleeping pills

• Twice as many women as men are prescribed these drugs.
• It is estimated that one in five women are prescribed these drugs at some point in each year.
• They are used more by women who do not have a steady job outside the home.

Why is there concern about the use of these drugs?

These drugs are in widespread everyday use, often dispensed through repeat prescriptions.

But doctors and patients are becoming increasingly concerned about them for three main reasons:

• It is doubtful whether they are effective for periods beyond four months.
• Their side effects can be unpleasant and distressing.
• There is a strong risk that people who use them will become dependent.

Giving up

If you've been taking these drugs for a long time and want to give them up, don't do it on your own. Discuss it carefully with your doctor; get support from family and friends. Our leaflet gives further information on the more common types of problems and how to give up.

There is a National Drugs Helpline which can offer advice (see below). They may also know of local groups where you can get practical help and support.

National Drugs Helpline

Offers free, confidential advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Any calls made to the Helpline do not appear on an itemised telephone bill - Tel: 0800 776600.

Local Well-Woman Clinics may also be able to offer advice.

Don't forget the advice and support you can get from the union in dealing with any issues that affect you.

Tranquillisers (Women's Health Series Leaflet 3) was correct at date of publication March 2006.

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Last Modified: Monday, 21-Sep-2009 22:41:15 EST