This paper presents the results of a survey carried out to investigate
the benzodiazepine (BZD) prescribing patterns of the general practiti
oners (GP) in the catchment area of a Drug Dependence Unit located in
a general hospital in Mataro (Barcelona, Spain). The aims of the surve
y ware: (i) to obtain descriptive information on the knowledge of the
GPs about BZD and its potential for dependence; (ii) to study the freq
uency of their prescribing; and (iii) to examine different factors lin
ked to their prescribing. The study was carried out using a combinatio
n of a personal interview and a self-administered questionnaire. A tot
al of 68 doctors (88.3%) completed the questionnaire. The results show
that the GPs have, in general, correct knowledge about the therapeuti
c indications for BZD prescribing, but are far less aware of their pot
ential to induce dependence and how to manage withdrawal. The rate of
prescribing seems to be high. Furthermore, the results of the external
check of validity point out that doctors tend to underestimate the nu
mber of prescriptions. The majority of GPs express the need for altern
ative resources to BZD prescribing. No significant associations have b
een found between doctor's characteristics, such as postgraduate train
ing and type of practice, and their knowledge about BZD and frequency
of their prescribing. In our view, a more accurate knowledge about BZD
and alternatives to its use, both factors closely linked to training,
together with the availability of non-pharmacological resources, are
likely to improve the quality of doctors prescribing habits, thus prev
enting risks such as dependence of BZD.