Pregabalin and Gabapentin to be classed as controlled drugs

Posted on March 1st, 2019

Are you taking Gabapentin or Pregabalin (brand names include Lyrica, Alzain, Neurontin)? 

The changes outlined below come into effect from April 2019. These  follow a government consultation because of concerns around misuse and will mean that these drugs become controlled drugs.

What does this mean to me?

There will be a change to the following;

1. Prescription will expire 28 days from the date on the prescription.
2. Any pharmacy ‘owings’ must be collected by the expiry
3. Quantity will be reduced to a maximum of 30 days
4. You will need proof of identity to collect from pharmacy
5. You will need to sign when collecting your prescription
6. Emergency supplies and loans cannot be made from pharmacies if you run out.

Do I need to do anything? 

1. Make sure you get any prescriptions you have dispensed before 1^st April 2019
2. If you are owed any medication by your pharmacy, make sure you collect this before 1^st April 2019.