How the medication trap arises
Almost every medication in this file starts with a logical, sensible decision by a doctor. The problem is not with the prescribing itself. It's in what doesn't happen afterwards.
A complaint, pain or crisis leads to a quick prescription. Often right and often the best decision at that moment.
The medicine may work well at first and therefore become important in daily life.
Some medicines can cause tolerance or physical dependence. Reducing or stopping may then cause symptoms.
Repeat prescriptions can continue for a long time, which makes clear review moments important.
There has never been a fixed moment when someone asked: are we still using this for the right reason?
If you want to stop, guidance is not always quickly available. Without a plan, tapering feels like free fall.
The full explanation in video
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The six steps in two minutes
The same explanation as above, but to watch or share with someone who recognises the pattern themselves.
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The six steps at a glance
A short visual summary of how a reasonable prescription can continue without a clear review or next step.
Choose a file
Each file stands alone: figures, where the trap is created, and what tapering looks like in practice. The same pattern is also seen with over-the-counter painkillers for migraine: used too often, a headache disorder develops on top of the original migraine.
Opioid painkillerOxycodone
Prescribed for pain after surgery or for chronic symptoms. Without a tapering plan, quitting becomes the next pain. Including the current warning about counterfeit pills containing nitazenes.
Read the file →
Sleeping pills & tranquilizersSleeping pills
Temazepam, zolpidem, zopiclone and lorazepam: temporarily prescribed for insomnia or anxiety, sometimes for years repeated.
Read the file →
Freely availableParacetamol
The Netherlands takes billions of tablets per year. Usually right, but what if the first step turns out to be the last?
Read the file →
Opioid painkillerTramadol
Often seen as "milder" than oxycodone, but it is indeed an opioid with a real risk of habituation and dependence.
Read the file →
Nerve pain & anxietyPregabalin
Prescribed for nerve pain and anxiety, with increasing use and a current signal about abuse among vulnerable groups.
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AntidepressantCitalopram
One of the most commonly used antidepressants. Not addictive like the other drugs here, but tapering does require a plan.
Read the file →SNRI antidepressantVenlafaxine
Not classically addictive, but stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms. Figures, effect and why tapering can take weeks.
Read the file →The questions behind medication use
The answer depends on the medicine, why you take it and your situation. This overview does not replace a conversation with your GP or pharmacist.
Are the medicines in these files addictive?
How can I stop taking my medication?
How long does it take to notice a dose increase?
What should I do if I have side effects or withdrawal symptoms?
Do you recognise this pattern?
Have you been using a medication for some time without anyone asking whether it is still necessary? Or do you know someone who gets stuck in this? Share your experience. Not to appoint a doctor, but to make the pattern visible.