Quality prescribing for Benzodiazepines and z-drugs: guide for improvement 2024 to 2027

Benzodiazepine and z-drug prescribing continues to slowly reduce across Scotland. Despite this, benzodiazepine and z-drug prescribing remains a challenge. This guide aims to further improve the care of individuals receiving these medicines and promote a holistic approach to person-centred care.


Abbreviations

A&A - Ayrshire and Arran Health Board

ADRs - Adverse drug reactions

BAP - British Association for Psychopharmacology

B-Z - Benzodiazepine and/or z-drug

B12 - Vitamin B12 (cobalamin)

CBT - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

cCBT - computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

CLW - Community Link Worker

DDD - Defined daily dose

D&G - Dumfries and Galloway Health Board

FBC - Full blood count

FV - Forth Valley Health Board

GAD - Generalised Anxiety Disorder

GAD- - 7 Generalised Anxiety Disorder questionnaire

GGC - Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board

GP - General practitioner

HSCP - Health and Social Care Partnership

LFTs - Liver function tests

MAT - Medication Assisted Treatment

MDI - Metered dose inhaler

MR - Modified release

NHS - National Health Service

NICE - National Institute for Health and Care Excellence

NNH - Number needed to harm

NNT - Number needed to treat

NTI - National Therapeutic Indicator

OTC - Over the counter

PHQ-9 - Patient Health Questionnaire

PROMs - Patient Reported Outcomes Measures

PTSD - Post-traumatic stress disorder

QOF - Quality and Outcomes Framework

SSRI - Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor

STU - Scottish Therapeutics Utility

TFTs - Thyroid function tests

U&Es - Urea and electrolytes

WI - Western Isles Health Board

Contact

Email: EPandT@gov.scot

Back to top