APPG for Prescribed Drug Dependence welcomes groundbreaking report by Public Health England on prescribed drug dependence and withdrawal

The All Party Parliamentary Group for Prescribed Drug Dependence (APPG-PDD) today applauds the release of a groundbreaking report by Public Health England, which for the first time highlights the extensive issue of drug prescribing that leads to dependence and withdrawal. The report reveals that one in four adults in England has been prescribed a benzodiazepine, z-drug, gabapentinoid, opioid, or antidepressant within the past year, with up to a third of these individuals receiving prescriptions for at least three years. Notably, prescribing rates are significantly higher in deprived areas, and the highest rates are observed among women and older adults.

This report builds on four years of dedicated work by the APPG-PDD, which has been addressing these issues since its inception in 2015. The APPG-PDD also acknowledges the valuable contributions and support from various organizations, including patients, researchers, charities, the British Medical Association, the Royal College of Psychiatrists, NICE, and the Daily Mail, which has supported the cause through a prominent media campaign.

The APPG-PDD is particularly encouraged by the report’s recommendations, many of which align with its long-standing campaign goals:

• Establishment of a 24-hour national helpline and website to offer expert advice and support, serving as a resource for both patients and doctors to facilitate shared decision-making.
• Updates to clinical guidelines, along with new guidance on managing dependence and withdrawal, and improved training to ensure adherence to these guidelines.
• Provision of enhanced information to patients about the risks and benefits of these medications, as well as alternatives such as social prescribing.
• Increased research into the nature and severity of withdrawal and the treatment of dependence caused by prescribed drugs.
• Appropriate NHS support for patients dealing with dependence and withdrawal issues, including dedicated support services.
• Review and enhancement of training and educational resources for practitioners concerning prescribed drug dependence and withdrawal.

Commenting on the report, Sir Oliver Letwin, Chair of the APPG-PDD, said: “Prescribed drug dependence and withdrawal can have devastating effects on patients who are simply following their doctor’s guidance. This report from Public Health England exposes the alarming scale of this issue and presents several urgent recommendations, including the establishment of a national 24-hour helpline and website, dedicated support services, and the development of new clinical guidelines and training for doctors. The APPG for Prescribed Drug Dependence fully supports these recommendations and will work diligently to ensure their implementation.”