Addictive drugs prescription practice among general practitioners

Rogaland A-senter, Norway has investigated prescription and cessation of benzodiazepine and minor opiates among GPs, and examined their need for external help to deal with this issue. A questionnaire, to be completed anonymously, was sent to all GPs in Rogaland county in spring 2008. 44% (134) of GPs responded to the survey. All GPs who responded had patients who seemed to use (based on renewal frequency of prescriptions) benzodiazepines or minor opiates on a daily basis. 94% (126) of GPs had patients for whom they doubted the treatment's usefulness. 99% (132) of GPs had attempted cessation, but their patients often lacked motivation. 70% of GPs responded that external help would be useful, both for patients (treatment possibilities) and themselves (guidance, support and knowledge). The results indicate that treatment of patients using benzodiazepine and minor opiates requires a closer cooperation between different levels of health services (primary and specialist).