Fear of Flying and Medication – What You Need to Know
Many people feel nervous about flying. It’s normal! Some ask if we can prescribe tablets like diazepam to help.
However, clinicians at Tamar Valley Health – and across the UK – do not prescribe sedatives for flying.
Here’s why:
Why Sedatives Are Not Given for Flying
- They slow your reactions – if there’s an emergency on board, you need to stay alert and able to respond.
- They increase the risk of blood clots (DVT) – especially on longer flights, because sedatives stop you moving around naturally.
- They can have the opposite effect – sometimes causing agitation, aggression, or unusual behaviour.
- They’re against national guidelines – medical rules say sedatives should not be used for fear of flying.
- They may cause travel problems – some countries ban these medicines, and carrying them could lead to legal issues.
- They can show up in drug tests – the medication stays in your system for weeks.
- They don’t treat the root cause – sedatives may actually make flying anxiety worse over time.
Safer Ways to Manage Fear of Flying
There are better, proven alternatives:
- Airline fear-of-flying courses
- Talking therapies (like CBT) – available through NHS Talking Therapies, these help you learn coping strategies.
- Practical self-help tips
- Breathing exercises
- Distraction (music, reading, puzzles)
- Speaking to cabin crew if you feel anxious
Taking Your Prescription Abroad
- Travel documents – You may need a letter from your GP confirming your medicines, and a copy of your prescription showing the generic (non-brand) names. Please be aware there may be a small charge for this paperwork.
- Packing medication –
- Keep medicines in their original labelled packaging.
- Carry most of them in your hand luggage (in a separate, easy-to-reach bag).
- Keep some spare in your checked suitcase in case of loss or damage.
- Liquids and inhalers – If you’re taking liquid medicines over 100ml (including inhalers), tell your airline and the airport security team before your bags are scanned. You may be asked for documents to show they’re needed.
- Needles and syringes – If you need to carry these, you must have the medication that goes with them. You cannot travel with syringes alone.
- Hot countries – Check the NHS website for advice how to store your medicines safely in warm climates.
- Country rules – Some countries limit what medicines can be brought in. If you take a controlled drug, always check with the embassy of your destination before you travel.