The Drayton Surgery Policy on the Use of Diazepam (and Similar Medications) for Fear of Flying
At The Drayton Surgery, we understand that fear of flying can be distressing and may impact travel plans, particularly when visiting family, attending important events, or going on holiday. Patients sometimes request medications such as diazepam, lorazepam or temazepam (benzodiazepines), to help manage this fear or to aid sleep during flights.
However, in line with national prescribing guidance from the BNF, NICE and GMC, and for important medical, safety, and legal reasons, we will no longer prescribe these medications for the purpose of flight anxiety or to aid sleep while flying. This policy has been adopted across our clinical team and applies to all patients registered at The Drayton Surgery, including those who have previously been prescribed these medications for fear of flying.
Why have we adopted this policy?
- Passenger and Public Safety
Benzodiazepines such as diazepam impair alertness, coordination, and reaction times. In the rare event of an in-flight emergency, this could prevent you from reacting quickly, putting both yourself and others at risk. - Health Risks During Flight
These medications can cause deep, unnatural sleep. This increases your risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) due to prolonged immobility, especially on flights longer than four hours. DVT can be life-threatening. - Side Effects and Dependency
Diazepam and similar drugs can cause drowsiness, confusion, memory issues, agitation, and in some cases, aggressive behaviour. They are also highly addictive, and withdrawal can cause serious symptoms such as hallucinations or seizures. - Not Indicated for Mild or Situational Anxiety
National prescribing guidelines classify short-term or mild anxiety (such as fear of flying) as an inappropriate indication for diazepam. These drugs are only indicated for acute, severe anxiety crises—not for phobias like fear of flying. - Potential for Misuse and Legal Issues Abroad
These medications are classified as controlled drugs in the UK and are also illegal in many countries. Travelling with them may lead to confiscation, legal problems, or difficulties with customs or airport security.
Recommended Alternatives
Instead of medication, we advise evidence-based, non-drug approaches that are proven to help with flight anxiety. Here are some recommended resources:
- Patient.info – Fear of Flying Guidance
Practical article with a range of links to further resources, techniques, and support for managing flight anxiety. - Self help Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – https://www.getselfhelp.co.uk/phobias-self-help/
Self help CBT worksheets and exercises to support managing flight anxiety.
- Fear of flying courses (paid) – British Airways’ “Flying With Confidence” and Easyjet’s “Fearless Flyer” courses aim to improve understanding of flying and reduce flight anxiety.
Our Commitment to Your Wellbeing
We know that every patient is different, and fear of flying can feel overwhelming. If your anxiety is severe, ongoing, or impacting other areas of life, please speak to our team. We can arrange appropriate treatment pathways such as referral to talking therapies, CBT, or support via the NHS Wellbeing Service.
Thank you for understanding and supporting our policy, which prioritises your safety and health, both on the ground and in the air.
The Drayton Surgery Clinical Team
(Last reviewed: July 2025)