Free Prescriptions?

[Ness2107]

I have been diagnosed with Systemic Lupus SLE. I have been prescribed a number of medications that I must now take for a prolonged period. Am I able to get any concession on the cost of these prescriptions? I am 38yrs old, do not claim any benefits, am in employment and am a single parent mother.

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi Ness,

Unfortunately SLE patients aren't entitled to free prescriptions. One way that you would be entitled to free prescriptions is if you suffer from Hypoadrenalism as a result of long-term steroid treatment. If you've had steroid treatments for a long time, you can ask your GP to test for this.

Do you have a Prescription Pre-payment Certificate? If you on on lots of treatments it could definitely help save you money. You can find out more about them here - nhsbsa.nhs.uk/1127.aspx

[Ness2107]

Thank you Paul. I have been put on a reducing dose if steroids, I don't think that it qualifies.

[Sue2803]

I am on 14 different meds for my SLE and Hughes, am not entitled to free prescriptions. The only way I can afford this is to buy the pre payment card, this costs £10.40 a month for 10 months of the year and you can get as many prescriptions as you need on this. It saves me a small fortune.

[lowicklady55]

I have a pre payment certificate. I think you need to be on more than 4 different tabs a month to get them. I was on 6 different tabs. Gosh I was looking at Sue above me. Take care

[Ness2107]

Thank you so much Guys, you have beeIn very helpful.

[janiceray]

On the funny side move to Wales it free!!!!

Love & Sunshine

Jan x

[Chablis]

Hi

Are you taking levothyroxine? If so, you qualify for free prescriptions. Otherwise, the prepayment certificate is your best option

M

[jemmyjemjem]

I have a pre payment and am on 2 mess. I just bought a 3 moth one to start xxx

[Herb]

If you have epilepsy symptoms (which some Lupies do have) and are on medications to treat it, you may be exempt, the other way is if you are on a low income, you need to complete a form which yu can get from larger pharmacies and prove your low income.

If you have a high cost of living such as rent etc you can tell them about that too. The people who look at the form will really try and help you. They once phoned me up to check a a detail as I was on the brink of being eligible and the lady wanted me to get the exemption.

Check it out here

nhsbsa.nhs.uk/HealthCosts/1...

[Ness2107]

Thanks Herb