Sedatives for Flying, Scans and Procedures Policy

Carnarvon Medical Centre Policy

Carnarvon Medical Centre does not prescribe sedative medication (such as Diazepam, Lorazepam or Temazepam) for patients undergoing MRI scans, CT scans, dental procedures, hospital investigations, air travel, or any other procedures carried out by external providers.

We understand that some patients may feel anxious, claustrophobic, or nervous before a scan, procedure, or flight. However, it is not appropriate or safe for GP practices to prescribe sedatives for these situations.

Why do we not prescribe sedatives?

Patient Safety

Sedative medication can affect breathing, alertness, coordination, and decision-making. Patients receiving sedation should be assessed, monitored, and supported by appropriately trained healthcare professionals with access to emergency equipment if required.

Sedatives can be unpredictable

While sedatives often cause relaxation and drowsiness, some people may experience unexpected effects, including increased anxiety, agitation, confusion, or excessive sedation. Even low doses can affect individuals differently.

Timing of medication

Scans and procedures are frequently delayed or rescheduled. A sedative taken before an appointment may become ineffective if there is a delay, or may take effect at an inappropriate time, creating additional safety concerns.

Responsibility of the treating team

The clinician, department, dentist, or hospital team arranging the procedure is responsible for assessing whether sedation is required and arranging it safely if appropriate. These teams have access to the same medications as GPs and are best placed to determine the most suitable option for the patient.

MRI Scans, CT Scans, Dental Procedures and Other Investigations

If you feel anxious about an MRI scan, CT scan, dental procedure, endoscopy, cataract surgery, or other investigation, please contact the department or clinician arranging the procedure as early as possible.

They may be able to:

• Provide reassurance and additional information.

• Offer practical support to help you complete the procedure.

• Discuss alternative options where available.

• Arrange hospital- or provider-led sedation if clinically appropriate

Requests for sedatives relating to MRI scans, CT scans, dental procedures, hospital investigations, endoscopy procedures, or other treatments carried out by external providers will not be prescribed by Carnarvon Medical Centre.

Fear of Flying

Carnarvon Medical Centre does not prescribe Diazepam or other sedative medications for fear of flying.

Although some patients have previously been prescribed sedatives for air travel, this is no longer considered appropriate or safe practice.

Reasons include:

• Sedatives can cause excessive drowsiness, slowed reaction times and impaired judgement during an emergency.

• Sedatives may increase the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) on longer flights due to reduced movement.

• Some people experience unexpected side effects such as agitation, aggression or confusion.

• Benzodiazepines and other sedatives can be habit-forming and are not recommended for routine use in anxiety related to flying.

• Fear of flying is not considered a medical condition that routinely requires medication.

Patients who experience anxiety related to flying may wish to consider airline fear-of-flying courses, relaxation techniques, counselling, or other non-medication approaches.

For these reasons, Carnarvon Medical Centre will not prescribe sedatives for air travel.

Summary

Carnarvon Medical Centre does not prescribe sedatives for:

• MRI scans

• CT scans

• Dental procedures

• Endoscopy procedures

• Cataract surgery

• Hospital investigations

• Air travel or fear of flying

• Any other procedure undertaken by an external provider

If sedation is required, this should be discussed with the healthcare professional or organisation undertaking the procedure.