Librium! What can anyone tell me?

[candycrowley]

Having just phoned the Drug and Alcohol Support people advised by the Hospital, I was offered a five day detox programme to take at home for the princely cost of £1800. Is this normal? Can I buy the drug myself? And if so what does it cost?

[susieanna]

Have you been to your GP? I'm confused also, surely the drug and alcohol support place offers detoxes for free on the NHS ? On the nhs can be a bit of a wait 're detox unfortunately though. Some GPs are prepared to give you short supply you can take at home, but these days they are few and far between really. And they need to to be sure it's safe for you to do so. I cannot really advise you in regard to buying the drug I'm afraid. But it most likely is illegal these days at least. Not recommended due to uncertainty also about if it would actually be librium or something else that could be harmful.

[candycrowley in reply to susieanna]

Thank you

[candycrowley in reply to susieanna]

Hello Susieanna, Yes I went to my GP and she told me it was the consultant at the hospital who would be able to prescribe the appropriate medication and yet he said he could not. He mentioned the Alcohol support people and gave me their number and they said I had to pay. I feel a bit dejected to be honest and quite on my own with this. Yes Snoutie I am in the UK...

[Hidden]

Are you in the UK?

[candycrowley in reply to Hidden]

Yes

[Dave5]

They will be using the money to pay for a private doctor to prescribe it. Don't pay it.

Even your GP can prescribe librium if so inclined. Perhaps try telling them that if they don't you will pay to get it privately?

They don't like prescribing it because it's an addictive drug but they can. Alcohol support services often have their own gp to prescribe it if your own won't.

[candycrowley in reply to Dave5]

Thank you Dave. This is my third attempt to get help by way of a medication to help with withdrawal... and I have come up against this each time...

[Wass71]

My brother was prescribed it by our family doctor. He took it as instructed and hasn't drunk for 10 years. He still smokes weed, but that doesn't turn him into a total arse like alcohol did.

Go back to your GP and tell them how desperately you need help. You shouldn't have to pay for something which in the long term will be cost effective for the NHS. If you get no joy, try another Dr. Its very brave of you to try and get help. It makes me angry you have to jump through hoops to get help.

Good luck, and let us know how you get on.

Take care x

[scampi2122]

I am not sure, but I think included in the price is some kind of care package for delivering it and checking your well being. It is not something they prescribe without supervision. On that basis, the price seems reasonable. Unfortunately, NHS is just too stretched at this time, to offer a detox on a hospital ward. Some rehab clinics offer on a home basis but the cost is similar or more. If you are willing to get the help you need alongside a detox and afterwards, it is money well spent. Ask your GP about prescribing Acamprosate which can help you maintain abstinence alongside counselling meetings etc. All the very best

[Cobwebs]

I had terrible side effects with Librium and needed 24 hour care. And I still didn’t give up drinking. Be careful.

[Kirkleone]

I've just retired from a treatment centre and have never heard such a ridiculous statement! Not aiming it at you but I'd like to know who these people are that you've been referred to??

[Paulwil]

I know GP's are able to prescribe it but this very unlikely. It is normally taken under medical supervision as there are serious risks if someone drinks at the same time.

The amount you have mentioned is similar to what a residential detox programme costs.