§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many prescriptions for benzodiazepines were issued by community pharmacists in the United Kingdom during 1988.
§ Mr. MellorThe number of prescriptions for benzodiazepines dispensed by community pharmacists in Great Britain in 1988 was 23.2 million. This was 9 per cent. fewer than in 1987.
§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what response he has made to the report by the Association of Community Health Councils on benzodiazepines.
§ Mr. FreemanWe are aware of the report on benzodiazepines produced by the association. The report succinctly and usefully summarises the problems associated with tranquilliser dependence and suggests some solutions.
The Department shares the association's concern about long-term benzodiazepine dependence. It is tackling the problem both by ensuring doctors have all the guidance they need for careful prescribing of these drugs and by allocating additional resources for the expansion of services for drug misusers including those dependent on prescribed tranquillisers.