Diazepam for Dental or Hospital Procedures

< Back to policies & procedures

We understand that some patients feel anxious about attending dental procedures, hospital appointments, or other medical interventions. However, our clinicians are not able to prescribe diazepam or similar sedative medications for these situations.

This is because national prescribing guidance states that sedatives for procedural anxiety should be provided and monitored by the clinical team carrying out the procedure, where appropriate safety measures and supervision are in place. Prescribing these medications in a general practice setting, without direct oversight during the procedure, is not considered safe.

If you are feeling particularly anxious about an upcoming appointment, we encourage you to speak directly with your dentist, hospital team, or the service providing your care. They will be able to advise you on the support options available.

Safe Surgeries logo Safe
Surgeries
Veteran Friendly Armed Forces veteran
friendly accredited
GP practice
lgbtq logo

Pride in
Practice

Gold

Disability Confident disability
confident
Committed
apc-left

RCGP Active Practice