We do not prescribe Diazepam or other sedative medications for fear of flying. This will apply to other situations, such as for MRI scans, Dental or other medical procedures. This decision is based on several important medical, legal, and safety considerations:
- Impaired Awareness & Safety – Diazepam is a sedative, which means it makes you sleepy and more relaxed. If there is an emergency during the flight it may impair your ability to concentrate, follow instructions and react to the situation. This could have serious safety consequences for you and those around you.
- Increased Risk of Blood Clots (DVT) – Sedative medications reduce movement during sleep, increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can be life-threatening. This risk is higher on long flights (over four hours).
- Unpredictable Reactions – While most people experience sedation, some may have the opposite reaction, leading to agitation, aggression, or disinhibition, which could compromise safety and lead to legal consequences.
- Not Recommended for Phobias – National prescribing guidelines do not support the use of benzodiazepines for phobias, including fear of flying. These medications are only licensed for short-term use in cases of generalised anxiety disorder during a crisis.
- Legal Restrictions in Other Countries – Diazepam and similar drugs are illegal in a number of countries. They may be confiscated, or you may find yourself in trouble with the police.
- Work & Drug Testing Considerations – Diazepam stays in your system for quite a while. If your job requires you to submit to random drug testing you may fail this having taken diazepam.
Alternative Support
We understand that fear of flying is a genuine and distressing condition. Instead of medication, we recommend considering a Fear of Flying Course, which is offered by several airlines. These courses provide evidence-based coping strategies, are safer, and offer long-term benefits beyond a single flight.
- www.fearlessflyer.easyjet.com
- Flying with confidence | Information | British Airways
- How to overcome MRI scan anxiety