A study published in 2016 scientifically validated a withdrawal protocol for anxiolytics called SPECth. Its peculiarity is that it consists of a Spa treatment of 3 weeks, associated with balneotherapy treatments as well as a cognitive and behavioral therapy program. At the end of these 3 weeks, the patient benefits from a follow-up over 6 months. This course entitled “reduce or stop your tranquilizers” will be covered at 50% by the National Health Insurance Fund (CNAM) in 2018. In the end, it will cost 160 euros instead of 320 €.
Towards a total cessation of medication
This therapeutic protocol was created in the spa town of Saujon, which specializes in psychological disorders. The study which validated its effectiveness focused on 70 patients, aged on average 55 years. All suffered from anxiety and / or depression and exhibited overuse of benzodiazepine, an anxiolytic. After 3 months, then 6 months after the end of treatment, the doctors recorded the drug consumption of these patients using a questionnaire.
As a result, 40% have completely stopped taking medication and 78% of patients have halved their consumption. Dr Olivier Dubois, psychiatrists at Saujon thermal baths, explains in a press release that the anxious state and depression improved considerably in the weaned patients. According to him, “this medical recognition once again validates that this set of treatments is an effective solution to reduce drug overuse. “
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