New York City Health Info 2016: "Judicious Prescribing of Benzodiazepines"

[[La...]]

This brochure is top-notch! It's aimed at prescribing doctors, and it begins with a warning -- yes, in a box -- that states "If benzodiazepines are indicated, prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration—no more than 2 to 4 weeks."

 

It's well-researched, and it includes some information about physical dependence, tolerance and withdrawal. There's even a section on CYP450 interactions between benzos and other medications (e.g. Prozac and others). It suggests other first-line treatments for insomnia and anxiety too.

 

Overall, it's very impressive. This is a great piece of literature to print out and share with a doctor, because it's up-to-date and has so many references and links (including links to Ashton Manual and others for tapering).

 

http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/chi/chi-35-2.pdf

 

 

 

[[lo...]]

Thanks, Lapis.  Good to see this.

 

Fiona 

[[La...]]

I'm still amazed! A warning at the top of brochure! This one's a keeper.

[[be...]]

Wow! That's what I'm talking about!    I  read (in the document I just posted) that in New York the Triplicate program for benzodiazepine prescribing was also implemented and this reduced prescribing by nearly 50% and seven years on this was sustained.  I see things moving in the right direction.  People will take notice of what's happening in New York I think.  Excellent brochure.  Thank you Lapis.

[[La...]]

I figure if it's good enough for New York City, then it's good enough for the rest of us too! What I mean is, this brochure can serve as a template for others. They've done their homework. No need to re-create the wheel if these folks have done it already. Just add some local resources and away you go!

 

 

[[Te...]]

Oh, thank you, Lapis!!  :thumbsup:

 

I am overjoyed to be reading something like this. You mean they care?? It's about time!!!

[[La...]]

You're welcome, Terry! I do hope other public health departments use this info too. Why not use it around the US? I'd love to see something like this here in Canada too.