Experiences and perceptions of care for medications with a risk of dependence: insights from patients and healthcare professionals

Background: Medications with a risk of dependence are widely prescribed but have been associated with a poor experience of care for patients. This study aimed to understand patient and healthcare staff perspectives in the prescription, management, and deprescription of benzodiazepines, z-drugs, opioids for chronic noncancer pain, gabapentinoids, and antidepressants. Methods: Online semistructured interviews were conducted with 20 patients and 15 healthcare professionals from five different GP practices. Data were analyzed using codebook thematic analysis. Results: Patients and healthcare professionals shared concerns about medications with a risk of dependence and described deprescription as a challenging and complex process. While the value of providing patients with detailed medication-related information was recognized by healthcare professionals, patients felt that more information was needed. The use of regular, personalized medication reviews was seen as important for patient care and medication management, but patients felt this was lacking from current care. Conclusion: The findings of this study provide new insights into how medications with a risk of dependence are managed and how care is experienced by patients. The findings have clear implications for improving patient experience, which is a key aspect of quality care.