Prescription medicines: have you experienced a period of dependency?
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Version 0 of 1. Nearly 12 million people in England are taking medicines for pain, depression or insomnia that can cause dependence, according to a government review. Half of those who are taking opioid painkillers, benzodiazepines and sleeping pills have been on them for a year or more and more than a fifth for over three years. Public Health England said that while there may be good reasons for people to use antidepressants over a long period, the widespread prescribing of opioid painkillers needs to change. We’d like to hear from people who have found it difficult to stop after taking medicines which were prescribed by a GP. We’d also like to find out more about the situation from healthcare practitioners or others who have dealt with the issue. Share your stories We’d like to speak to people who have been affected by this issue. Have you experienced a period of dependency after being prescribed medicine by a GP? Were you offered alternative treatments? Have you had withdrawal symptoms? What’s the situation like for doctors and other health professionals? You can get in touch by filling in the form below – anonymously if you wish. One of our journalists will be in contact before we publish your submission. If you’re having trouble using the form, click here. Read terms of service here. Opioids Health Depression GPs NHS callout Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share via Email Share on LinkedIn Share on Pinterest Share on WhatsApp Share on Messenger Reuse this content |