Important Information About Diazepam for Fear of Flying
At Pendleside Medical Practice, we have reviewed our prescribing practices in line with national guidelines. As a result, we will no longer prescribe benzodiazepines or sedatives, such as diazepam (commonly known as Valium), to patients for fear of flying.
Why has this decision been made?
Concerns around the use of benzodiazepines, including diazepam, have grown as we better understand their risks and side effects. These include:
- Short-term memory impairment
- Reduced concentration and reaction times
- Coordination issues
- Significant risks of addiction
Diazepam is now classified as a Class C/Schedule IV controlled drug in the UK, with strict regulations on its use. You can read more about this on the gov.uk website on controlled drugs.
Why is Diazepam Not Suitable for Flying?
When considering the risks of using diazepam for fear of flying, it becomes clear that the potential dangers outweigh any short-term benefits. Here are the key reasons why it is not prescribed for this purpose at Pendleside Medical Practice:
Reduced Ability to Respond During Emergencies
Diazepam slows reaction times and impairs decision-making, which could jeopardise your ability to act in a safety-critical situation on a flight. In some cases, it may even cause severe sedation, leaving you unresponsive during an emergency.
Increased Risk of Blood Clots (DVT)
While diazepam may make you feel relaxed or drowsy, it promotes unnatural, non-REM sleep, during which you are less likely to move. This immobility increases the risk of developing a potentially fatal deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially on flights lasting more than four hours.
Paradoxical Effects
A small percentage of people experience heightened agitation, aggression, or disinhibition after taking benzodiazepines. This could lead to unsafe or inappropriate behaviour, potentially endangering yourself and others or causing legal issues.
Complications with Alcohol
Many passengers consume alcohol during flights, but combining alcohol with diazepam significantly amplifies the risks of sedation, disinhibition, and reduced coordination.
Legal and Logistical Challenges
Some countries prohibit the import of controlled drugs, meaning diazepam could be confiscated, or you may face legal penalties. Additionally, without access to the drug for your return flight, you could find yourself unprepared.
Long-Term Effects
- Prolonged use of benzodiazepines has been linked to an increased risk of dementia.
- Studies indicate that these medications may hinder the natural adjustment process for overcoming anxiety, potentially worsening fear of flying over time.
Drug Testing Risks
Diazepam stays in your system for a significant amount of time. If your job requires you to undergo random drug testing, you could fail the test after taking diazepam.
What are the alternatives?
We understand that flying can cause significant anxiety for some individuals. However, instead of masking the symptoms with medication, we recommend addressing the underlying fear with targeted support. The aviation industry offers excellent resources and courses designed to help people overcome flight anxiety:
- EasyJet Fearless Flyer
- British Airways Flying with Confidence
- Virgin Atlantic Flying Without Fear
- Hypnotherapy
These programs are specifically tailored to help individuals feel safe and confident when flying.
If you would like further advice or support regarding fear of flying, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you find safe and effective ways to manage your concerns.