[Prescription of tranquilizers and hypnotics in the municipality of Holbaek].

On the basis of an investigation of prescriptions of tranquillizers and hypnotics for individuals resident in the Municipality of Holbaek, a description was made of which tranquillizers and which hypnotics were prescribed and the quantities provided. 96% of the prescriptions were written by the general practitioners in the town. Only 2% of the patients had obtained medicine from various doctors. Benzodiazepine derivatives constituted 93% of all tranquilizers and 96% of the hypnotics prescribed. Diazepam, nitrazepam and triazolam were the preparations most frequently prescribed. Diazepam, flunitrazepam and the older hypnotics were prescribed in quantities which suggested that these preparations were preferred by chronic users with massive drug intake. The smallest portions available were employed for 17% of the prescriptions for tranquillizers and in 2% of the prescriptions for hypnotics. The favourite amount prescribed was 100 tablets. Where triazolam was concerned, strikingly high defined daily dosages were prescribed. As only brief or episodic use is rational, half of all the tranquilizers and four out of five prescriptions for hypnotics are considered unsuitable.