Drugs of dependence

This page explains dependence-forming medicines in Essex, including what dependence means, which medicines carry risks, and where to get help if you are concerned about your treatment. Many medicines are safe and effective when used correctly. However, some medicines can lead to dependence, especially when taken for a long time.

Understanding the benefits and risks of these medicines can help you use them safely and make informed decisions about your care. Your GP or pharmacist can support you to review your medicines and reduce risks where needed.

What is medicine dependence?

Dependence happens when your body becomes used to a medicine. If the medicine is reduced or stopped suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms or feel unwell.

Dependence may be:

• Physical dependence – your body adapts to the medicine
• Psychological dependence – you feel unable to cope without the medicine
• Tolerance – you need a higher dose to achieve the same effect

It is important to understand that dependence can occur even when medicines are taken exactly as prescribed. However, dependence is not the same as addiction.

What is addiction?

Addiction differs from dependence. Addiction involves behavioural and psychological symptoms, which may include:

• strong cravings for a medicine
• difficulty controlling use
• continued use despite harm
• compulsive behaviour

Some people remain vulnerable to cravings even after reducing or stopping a medicine safely. However, many people can reduce dependence safely with the right support.

Medicines that can cause dependence

Several types of prescribed medicines in Essex can lead to dependence, particularly when used long term. These include:

• Opioids, such as morphine or codeine, used for pain relief
• Benzodiazepines, used to treat anxiety
• Z-drugs, such as zopiclone and zolpidem, used for sleep problems
• Gabapentinoids, used for nerve pain and epilepsy
• Antidepressants, used to treat depression and anxiety

These medicines play an important role in treatment. However, regular reviews help ensure they remain safe and effective.

Why dependence-forming medicines require regular review

Dependence-forming medicines in Essex can affect physical and mental wellbeing if used long term. Potential risks include:

• withdrawal symptoms
• increased risk of overdose
• reduced quality of life
• worsening mental health
• difficulty carrying out daily activities

For this reason, healthcare professionals review these medicines regularly. Reviews help ensure you continue to receive safe and appropriate treatment.

Local support and national guidance

Across Essex, many people use strong pain medicines. However, only some people experience long-term benefit. Therefore, regular reviews and alternative approaches are important.

NHS Essex supports the national Painkillers Don’t Exist campaign. This campaign provides clear information about:

• types of pain medicines
• risks of long-term use
• signs of dependence
• alternative pain management options
• how to seek help

Reducing the risks of dependence-forming medicines

NHS Essex works with healthcare providers to improve the safe use of dependence-forming medicines. This includes:

• increasing awareness of medicines risks
• supporting informed patient decisions
• encouraging regular medicines reviews
• helping patients use medicines safely
• promoting non-medicine approaches where appropriate

Your GP or pharmacist will discuss the benefits and risks of your treatment and help you find the safest option.

When to speak to your GP or pharmacist

You should speak to your GP or pharmacist if you:

• feel concerned about your medicine
• have taken a medicine for a long time
• want to reduce or stop your medicine
• feel your medicine is no longer helping
• experience side effects or withdrawal symptoms
• take more than your prescribed dose

Do not stop taking dependence-forming medicines suddenly. Your GP can help you reduce your dose safely and gradually.

Support services in Essex

Help is available across Essex if you are concerned about dependence-forming medicines. Local services provide advice, treatment, and ongoing support to help you manage your health safely.

Pain management support

You can access a range of services to help manage pain safely and effectively. These may include:

• pain management advice and support
• musculoskeletal services and physiotherapy
• digital self-management tools
• community wellbeing and support services

Support for drug or alcohol dependence

You can access confidential support through:

• Open Road – drug and alcohol recovery service in Essex.
• NHS drug and alcohol services
• FRANK national drugs helpline
• Narcotics Anonymous support groups
• Alcoholics Anonymous support groups

Your GP can also refer you to local specialist services.