A new report has recommended greater caution and strict monitoring of the prescribing of benzodiazepines and other drugs.
The report 'Examining the overprescribing of Benzodiazepines, Z Drugs and Gabapentinoids in Ireland' was produced by a multi-agency working group, led by the Medical Council.
The report aims to reduce the overprescribing of sleeping pills to people.
Chairperson of the Working Group Dr Margaret O'Riorda said that while benzodiazepines may have a role in the treatment of a patient on a time-limited basis, caution and strict monitoring are required when they are prescribed.
Dr O'Riorda said the overprescribing of these drugs is an issue that affects patient safety and has significant implications for public health.
The working group was set up following an increase in serious complaints relating to the overprescribing of benzodiazepines.
Professor Eamon Keenan, National Clinical Lead for Addiction Services at the HSE said that benzodiazepines were the fourth most common drug causing presentations to addiction services in 2023, accounting for 1,477 cases.
Prof Keenan said that these drugs are also implicated in drug related deaths.
Over the years, 2012-2021, he said there has been a 45% increase where benzodiazepines have been implicated and deaths were pregablin has been implicated have risen from 14 in 2013 to 83 in 2021.
Today's report calls for further education of doctors, pharmacists and the public on the issue.
It also recommends a central repository for data, accessible to prescribers, to enhance visibility of private prescribing of controlled drugs.
Benzodiazepines, like diazepam and alprazolam, are a class of drugs known as sedatives.
Z-drugs, like zolpidem, are a newer class of drugs to treat insomnia.
Gabapentinoids like pregablin, are antiepileptic drugs, also used to calm nerve signals and for chronic pain.
The report says consideration should be given to including Pregablin and Gabapentin on the Controlled Drugs List.
