Pharmacy experience

[Saltwaterman]

My wife had an interesting experience at a pharmacy yesterday. After being on clopidagrel for 12 months post stenting, it was time for me to switch back to aspirin. She was asked who it was for, normal enough, but when the pharmacist found out I was also on warfarin he stated that no-one would be prescribed both and refused to serve her. I had to go in and show the cardiology letter listing my treatment. We thought we would be saving the NHS money by not ordering it on prescription.

[MJOR1981]

Not sure they are the same but I have been on Clopidogrel and Rivaroxiban (think they do the same thing) ever since my heart attack. I am 6 months in now and had several med chats with GP and cardiologist as I haven’t taken well to some of them.

My point is if the 2 wouldn’t be prescribed at the same time there have been several opportunities for someone to raise it with me. The Cardiologist told me there is a generic meds list for most HA patients, for example Clopidigrel is “mainly” prescribed for stents but I don’t have a stent but still take the drug. Some other illnesses stop the use of some too.

I’m sure the pharmacists intentions were for your benefit, on this occasion it doesn’t sound like they are right..

[NathanBlau in reply to MJOR1981]

I think the pharmacist is absolutely correct in questioning anything he/she is not comfortable with - it would be surely unprofessional to do otherwise? I wouldn't be too critical as its better to be safe than sorry.

[MJOR1981]

Surely it would be professional to know what you are talking about. As with anything in life when unsure you should check!

By refusing medication rather than checking they are right first.. puts people at risk

[Qualipop in reply to MJOR1981]

Sorry I disagree. They could be giving something that's actually dangerous. I would hope my pharmacist would ask as many questions. I do get aspirin on prescription but when I accidentally dropped my pack in water I bought some over the counter and it was definitely questioned before he would let me have them.

[MJOR1981]

I’m not saying they shouldn’t ask questions.. they definitely should.. they must also find out the facts which they did not!

A call to the GP or Cardiologist? Speak to someone more senior or experienced ? To just flat refuse is equally putting people at risk!

[Saltwaterman]

Wasn't making any major issue out of it. It was a surprise as it was the 1st time in 2 years that we have been unable to get served. Wonder what he would have thought when I was on warfarin, clopidagrel and aspirin due to a blood clot in my LV 😀 I feel a little faith in people who manage their health conditions would have led to a more constructive conversation rather than taking such a rigid position.