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Archer et al tell us that benzodiazepines are increasing in young people1, and Phelan et al tell us they are decreasing.2 Anxiety prescriptions may be increasing due to much higher rates of diagnosis (or labelling). How best to manage this is complex, though 'talking therapies' may be the best long-term solutions, and for acute symptoms, short-term B Blockers may break a vicious circle of palpitations, making anxiety worse. The risk of suicide will probably be less, realised by many GPs, compared to the side effects and addiction from SSRI, benzodiazepines and gabapentin, so highlighting this is important
References 1. Archer C, Wiles N, Kessler D, Chew-Graham CA, Turner K. Prescribing benzodiazepines in young adults with anxiety: a qualitative study of GP perspectives. Br J Gen Pract. 2024;74(748): e742-e748. 2. Phelan R, Cottrell A, Gee S, Rifkin L. Propranolol in anxiety: poor evidence for efficacy and toxicity in overdose. Br J Gen Pract. 2024;74(748):516-519.
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