Habit-forming

The most common drugs prescribed

♦ Nine per cent of adults in England were prescribed drugs classed as “potentially dependence-forming” in the past year.

♦ Five per cent of adults were prescribed opioids, strong painkillers that are supposed to be prescribed short-term for severe pain.

♦ Two per cent of adults were given benzodiazepines, which can be used to treat insomnia, the figures show.

♦ Two per cent of adults were prescribed medication known as Z-drugs, which are also used to treat sleeping problems.

♦ Two per cent of adults were prescribed Gabaergic medicines, which are used to treat anxiety disorders, certain types of pain and alcohol withdrawal.