Medication Dependency Helpline

01202 - 311500

Medication Dependency Helpline

Written medical approval for withdrawal is essential.

In the late 1950's Meprobamate (Equanil) and various sedative/stimulant combinations, later to be replaced by the Benzodiazepines, were widely prescribed in the treatment of a range of physical and psychological disorders. If taken to excess, or sometimes even when used as prescribed, these could lead to dependency: in some cases after only 2 or 3 weeks. Tranquillisers soon became popular "Street Drugs" and were widely abused. Prescription of this group of drugs is now greatly reduced and largely for short term therapy but unfortunately they remain available on the street.

It has long been recognised that many conditions for which Anxiolytics were prescribed had their roots in Depression and Anti-depressants came to be drugs of first choice in their treatment. The earlier Anti-depressants (Tricyclics and MAOI) were capable of inducing dependency in that some users experienced difficulty in withdrawing but their moderately unpleasant side-effects ensured that they did not become very popular "Street Drugs." Some non psychotropic drugs; the minor analgesics (pain stoppers) and especially those including Beta-adrenergic blockade ("beta blockers") prescribed to ameliorate the physical symptoms of anxiety, can lead to dependency: particularly when used as "top-up" doses in multiple drug abuse. The slight reduction in pure Benzodiazepine Dependency has however more recently been offset by the emergence of the dependency on the newer Anxiolytic Anti-depressants.

EDAS offers a free confidential service for those in East Dorset concerned about their use/misuse of tranquilisers, prescribed and over the counter medications and the illegal use of these drugs. Self referral is welcome and referrals can be accepted from any source within the area. It is essential that Doctors permission be obtained if assistance with withdrawal from any form of prescribed medication is desired. The Service cannot proceed without it. It is important that information and advice be easily available once a user has made a decision to withdraw.

An EDAS volunteer drug advisor who is a State Registered Nurse and has over 30 years experience of working with drug users and their families makes an assessment of the clients needs and a realistic reduction programme is negotiated. Support and advice is offered in the form of regular telephone contact, and one-to-one sessions by appointment. Guidance is given on how to cope with and understand withdrawal symptoms. Reduction of medication is gradual and carefully monitored. Where appropriate, help is given on stress control and relevant therapy plus anxiety management techniques.

E.D.A.S.
2 West Hill Road
Bournemouth
Dorset
BH2 5PG

Administration
Tel: 01202 311606
Fax: 01202 311777