Frequently asked questions about reimbursement of sleeping pills and sedatives

In most cases, sleeping pills and sedatives (benzodiazepines) are not covered by the basic health insurance (basisverzekering). There are only a few exceptions to this, for certain chronic conditions such as epilepsy.

Sleeping pills and sedatives are only reimbursed in cases of epilepsy, severe anxiety disorders despite the use of several antidepressants, multiple severe psychiatric problems, or palliative sedation in terminal care (at the end of life).

Yes, Diazepam is only reimbursed in exceptional cases. Diazepam is also a benzodiazepine and is sometimes used as a muscle relaxant. It qualifies for reimbursement for patients who cannot walk and have muscle spasms due to a serious nerve disorder (e.g. after a stroke), and when other medicines for this type of muscle spasm are not effective.

Yes, reimbursement depends on specific medical circumstances. For example, in the case of anxiety disorders, treatment with at least 2 antidepressants must have failed before sleeping pills and sedatives are reimbursed.

We comply with the law when it comes to prescribing sleeping pills and sedatives. All our prescriptions meet the rules and guidelines of the health authorities, so that this is done in a responsible and legal way, and only when medically necessary. If the required conditions for reimbursement are not met, we are unable to issue an authorisation for reimbursement. In that case, you will have to pay for this medication yourself.