Written question WQ86166

We are aware of the rise in both the use of and deaths caused by benzodiazepines, such as diazepam.

Prescription-only medicines should never be purchased other than in accordance with a prescription from an appropriate practitioner.

Our substance misuse policy is rooted in a harm reduction approach and we work closely with the NHS, police and charities to tackle this issue.

We are investing almost £64m a year in this area and this includes support for the WEDINOS system which helps to collect and test unidentified or new substances to provide harm reduction advice and health alerts. Specialist training is available to a wide range of professionals in relation to benzodiazepines and our national drug and alcohol helpline, DAN 24/7, also has information available on benzodiazepines and a range of other substances.

We want to ensure people in Wales are aware of the dangers and the impact of substance misuse and to know where they can seek information, help and support. This includes highlighting that it can be unsafe to purchase medicines online unless they come from reputable sources such as pharmacies that carry the General Pharmaceutical Council’s internet pharmacy logo.

In collaboration with partners in Wales, we are considering how we can further reduce the harm caused by these substances.