Reclassification of Gabapentin and Pregabalin
20 February 2019
Please note that from 1 April 2019, gabapentin and pregabalin will be reclassified as Schedule 3 controlled drugs.
The recommended actions for GP practices are:
- Ensure your practice team is aware of the change
- Contact your system supplier to find out the date of the update to EPS
- Identify and review all repeatable prescriptions for pregabalin and gabapentin
- Stop repeat dispensing for gabapentin and pregabalin as early as possible before 1 April 2019 and put transition arrangements in place for patients
- Inform all patients currently taking pregabalin and gabapentin about the impact this change will have on their prescriptions. Ask them to ensure they request any prescriptions in plenty of time, to help the NHS to manage the transition process
- Update digital systems that print out paper prescriptions to ensure the quantity appears in words and figures
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