Actavis supply issue? Northcrest levothyroxine?

[dizzy864]

I went to Tesco this morning to collect my monthly prescription for levothyroxine. In spite of there being a note on my file that I only have Actavis, I was given Northcrest levothyroxine.

I think that's right, I only saw it briefly before returning it. I was told that the supplier sent that in lieu of Actavis and that there may be a problem with supply of Actavis. I was warned that I might run out if I don't accept the Northcrest offered.

I am ultra sensitive to any change with levothyroxine and have had problems with a couple of different brands in the past. I found Teva particularly bad. As I knew nothing about Northcrest I did not want to take a chance on it.

I refused to accept it. The pharmacist is going to try to obtain Actavis for me.

Firstly, does anyone know of a supply problem with Actavis - I live near Lincoln in the East Midlands.

Secondly, has anyone come accross Northcrest Levothyroxine ? Who is the manufacturer? I have not heard or seen this brand before.

Thanks for any help you can give.

[SeasideSusie Remembering]

dizzy864

Northstar is Actavis (as is Almus). Rebranded for certain pharmacies.

Northstar is Actavis rebranded for Lloyds Pharmacy (and Sainsburys I believe).

Almus is Actavis rebranded for Boots.

Have a look at the blister pack foil, it should say Actavis.

[dizzy864 in reply to SeasideSusie]

Hi,

I did not have the pack, so I have just rung Tesco and spoken to the pharmacist.

He opened up the pack and sure enough it does say Actavis inside. He was also unaware.

Thanks a lot for your help and particularly quick reply.

[helvella Administrator Thyroid UK in reply to dizzy864]

That shows even more ignorance of the pharmacist. You do NOT have look inside - it is quite clear on the outer card sleeve that Actavis is the product licence holder. Have a look at page 4 of this document:

dropbox.com/s/sswtzhxvrj2qi...

I think that Product Licence holder ( PL Holder) is always visible on the outside of medicines in the UK.