At Horizon Healthcare, we understand that fear of flying can be very distressing. However, in line with NHS guidance and current clinical best practice, we do not prescribe diazepam (or similar medications such as lorazepam or temazepam) for flight-related anxiety.
This decision is made for important medical, safety, and legal reasons, which are explained below.
NHS and National Guidance
- Diazepam is not licensed for phobias or situational anxiety such as fear of flying.
- The British National Formulary (BNF) states that benzodiazepines should only be used short-term for severe anxiety that is disabling or occurs in crisis—not for phobias.
- NHS England and local prescribing committees advise against the use of sedatives for travel anxiety due to their risks, lack of long-term effectiveness, and potential for harm.
Why Diazepam is Unsafe for Flying
✈️ Impaired Safety in Emergencies
Sedatives reduce alertness, coordination, and reaction time. In an in-flight emergency, this could put you—and others—at risk.
🩸 Risk of Blood Clots (DVT)
Long flights already carry a risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Sedatives increase this risk by reducing movement and circulation during sleep.
⚠️ Unpredictable Side Effects
Although diazepam usually causes drowsiness, some people experience paradoxical reactions—such as agitation, aggression, or disinhibition—leading to disruptive or dangerous behaviour onboard. This can result in removal from flights or legal consequences.
Legal and Travel Risks
- Controlled Drug: Diazepam is a Class C drug in the UK and is illegal in some countries. Carrying it without proper documentation can result in confiscation or arrest abroad.
- Insurance Implications: Taking sedatives without disclosure may invalidate your travel insurance if there are any related issues during your trip.
What You Can Do Instead
We strongly recommend non-drug-based strategies, which are safer and more effective in the long term:
- Fear of Flying Courses, often run by airlines:
- British Airways – Flying With Confidence
- Virgin Atlantic – Flying Without Fear
- EasyJet – Fearless Flyer
These programs offer psychological tools and exposure techniques proven to reduce flight anxiety.
Private GP Options
Fear of flying is not covered under the NHS General Medical Services (GMS) contract. If you still wish to explore medication, you may choose to consult a private GP, who may discuss other options with you.
In Summary
We do not prescribe diazepam or similar medications for flight anxiety due to strong clinical, safety, and legal reasons. Instead, we recommend safer, proven alternatives like structured fear of flying courses.
Thank you for your understanding.
Horizon Healthcare