Pregablin and Gabapentin

Important Changes To Pregabalin and Gabapentin Prescriptions

From 1 April 2019, gabapentin and pregabalin will be reclassified as class C controlled drugs. Increased restrictions are intended to improve safety. These medicines are used to treat nerve pain and sometimes epilepsy or anxiety.

What patients need to know:

• We will no longer be able to issue electronic prescriptions for gabapentin or pregabalin. Pharmacies will only be able to accept hand-signed paper prescriptions. This may mean you need to make alternative arrangements for collecting your prescriptions.
• Repeat dispensing prescriptions will no longer be allowed (also known as ‘batch prescriptions’). This means patients will need to order their medications through reception, online or with their pharmacy each time they need a new supply.
• We will only be able to issue prescriptions for a maximum of 30 days’ supply.
• Patients who receive these medications in a blister pack (dosette box) do not need to do anything, the practice will make the necessary arrangements with our local pharmacies.

Please allow sufficient time for ordering repeats around the time of this change. If you have any queries please contact one of the practice pharmacists or your GP.