5 Live Investigates - Prescription Drug Addiction

The British Medical Association has told 5 live Investigates it wants urgent action to tackle prescription drug addiction. It's calling for a 24 hour helpline, specialist treatment services across the UK and more information for doctors about withdrawal. The drugs include Benzodiazepines which are generally prescribed for severe anxiety and insomnia. 10 million prescriptions for them were issued in England alone last year and there are estimates that more than a quarter of million people are using the drugs long term - even though in most cases they should only be prescribed for up to four weeks. 5 live Investigates has spoken to people who have been using the drugs for decades.

Published on Sunday, 23rd October 2016.

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