Prescription for Naturethroid in UK

[Helenji]

I am going to be moving to the UK from the US in August. My doctor here prescribes me naturethroid and I want to continue on it as I find it works well for me. I have read about getting it prescribed on a "named patient basis" but not sure what that means! Does anyone on this forum know if it is possible to use a prescription from an American doctor anywhere in this country? If so where?

[Clutter]

Helenji,

As NatureThroid and other brands of NDT aren't licensed for UK use it is very unlikely you will be prescribed it on the NHS. "Named patient basis" enables doctors to write a prescription for unlicensed drugs. The GP takes personal responsibility for prescribing so few GPs are willing to do so and they can't be compelled. thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/treatm...

Most UK patients using NDT have private prescriptions or buy online and self medicate.

It may be worth contacting some of the online pharmacies in the link below to ask whether a prescription written in America will be valid.

[helvella Administrator]

Helenji,

Is it possible for your US doctor to continue prescribing, and someone collect the prescription, pick it up from a pharmacy and send the product over to you by post?

That might be the simplest - if it is possible.

[Helenji]

I have considered that option but it means having to come back yearly to the US as my doctor makes me take a full thyroid panel every year (TSH, T4, T3, T1 etc.) before she will prescribe. I think the UK doesn't do the same tests. Also, I am uneasy about mailing. Anyway, if I can find a reliable source in the UK I would rather go that route. I am just trying to get info on pharmacies and doctors in the UK willing to prescribe NDT's.

[helvella Administrator in reply to Helenji]

Helenji,

Could you not get your blood tested in the UK? There are several companies that offer the service.

In case this is a concern, it is perfectly legal, from a UK perspective, for you to receive medicines from abroad, for your own use.

I am concerned that even if you find a UK doctor who will prescribe, they might not be willing to maintain the regime you have been on.

Make sure you bring a decent supply with you. Even if it does all work out, it could take some time to get everything in place.

[Helenji in reply to helvella]

I will look into the testing but as I said, my doctor insists on a full panel. It is good to know that it is legal to have them sent. Thanks

[helvella Administrator in reply to Helenji]

Helenji,

There is no problem getting TSH, Free and Total T4, Free and Total T3. But what is T1?

One package of tests includes:

TSH, FT4, FT3, TT4, Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies, Thyroglobulin Antibodies, Ferritin, Folate, Vitamin B12 (NOT ACTIVE B12), C Reactive Protein, Vitamin D (25-OH)

Obviously, you can add any other tests that are available!

[Helenji in reply to helvella]

Thank you for the info. Will definitely look into it.

[SlowDragon Administrator in reply to Helenji]

Private tests are available

NHS refuses to test FT3 in most patients unless TSH is out of range

So as result 1000's here are forced to test privately

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/testin...

Medichecks Thyroid plus ultra vitamin or Blue Horizon Thyroid plus eleven are the most popular choice. DIY finger prick test or option to pay extra for private blood draw. Both companies often have money off offers.

£99 or sometimes £79 on offer

[Helenji in reply to SlowDragon]

Thank you. great information!

[SilverAvocado in reply to Helenji]

Unfortunately most in the UK order their NDT from the US or other distant places, so it will almost certainly mean mailing it somewhere.

[cazlooks]

some consultants will give you a prescription, you have to pay the consultation and blood tests. Dr Z at Nuffield Health Gatwick will give you a prescription, so if you are flying over from Canada you can get it off him. Alternatively just continue to buy it from there like most either direct or using a friends address?

[Admin note: Please PM member cazlooks if you require the Dr name, which has been removed in accordance with forum posting guideline 26 healthunlocked.com/thyroidu... ]