Patients taking certain drugs have been issued a fresh reminder of the risks
New warnings have been issued for anyone taking Diazepam or Lorazepam(Image: Getty Images)
The UK’s drug watchdog has issued a warning over commonly used medicines, which it says are to be given ‘strengthened’ warning labels. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) warned the drugs ‘may cause addiction, dependence and withdrawal reactions.
Patient information leaflets for the medicines will also have bolstered safety warnings about the risks of addiction and dependency, it added. The drugs include those commonly prescribed for anxiety, sleeping problems and nerve pain.
The MHRA said the move, which follows a safety review, will ‘better inform’ patients and healthcare workers of the risks of drug dependency.
The drugs in the warning include Benzodiazepines, which are commonly prescibed to patients with anxiety or sleeping problems. These include medications like Valium (diazepam), lorazepam, clobazam, temazepam and nitrazepam.
Gabapentinoids, which treat epilepsy and nerve pain, are also included in the warning. These include pregabalin and gabapentin.
The move will help patients better understand the risks of dependency and addiction(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
The MHRA has also issued an alert over Z-drugs, including zopiclone, zolpidem and eszopiclone, which are used to treat insomnia.
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA chief safety officer, said: “Addiction and dependency can happen to anyone taking these medicines, even when used as directed.
“That’s why we are strengthening warnings so patients and healthcare professionals can better understand the risks.
“These medicines remain valuable treatments for many patients and it’s important they have the information they need to be able to use them safely.
“If you have any questions about your medication use or side effects, please speak to a healthcare professional.
“Do not stop taking your medicine without advice, as this could cause withdrawal symptoms.”