Sleeping pills less frequently prescribed

Last Updated on Tuesday, 07 February 2012 14:59 Tuesday, 07 February 2012 14:58

Written by China Times

GPs prescribe fewer sleeping pills since the reimbursement was abolished in January 2009, according to research from the University of Utrecht and the Dutch Institute for Health Services Research (NIVEL). They also diagnosed with sleep and anxiety disorder less often. “GPs have become more cautious with medication,” says Liset van Dijk, the program leader NIVEL.

“GPs should now explain to their patients why the medications are not reimbursed any more. They point out the dangers and other ways to get to sleep. With a little behavior adjustment, such as no longer watching TV in bed, would help.”

Sleeping pills are addictive and prolonged use increases other risks, according to Van Dijk. “Therefore it is also nice that this government measure has also affected the prescribing behavior of physicians.”