Methadone & buprenorphine (temgesic)
Not supplied by this Practice. Management of patients on these items is by the Substance Misuse Team ONLY.
Sedatives, tranquilisers & hypnotics (sleeping tablets) — for example diazepam, temazepam, nitrazepam and zopiclone
These drugs are licenced for NHS prescription for short term use only. Therefore, patients will not be supplied with prescriptions for maintenance dose of these drugs. This practice is prepared to work with patients, in conjunction with the Substance Misuse Team, who will commit themselves to stopping these drugs.
Gabapentin & pregabalin
These are controlled drugs with recognised potential for misuse and dependence. They will only be prescribed where there is a genuine clinical need, in line with NICE guidance on safe prescribing.
Antidepressants & antipsychotics
These are prescribed based on clinical assessment of need. For antipsychotics and complex or ongoing mental health conditions, prescribing may be guided by specialist advice where appropriate. Counselling services are available through the Practice and we are keen to help those with genuine psychiatric needs.
Painkillers (codeine, tramadol, dihydrocodeine etc)
These drugs will only be prescribed where the doctor is satisfied that there is a genuine need.
All new patients requesting prescriptions as above will be required to see the doctor for a review of their medication before issuing for the first time. This applies equally to patients transferring in who were already prescribed one of these medications by a previous GP; existing prescriptions will not automatically be continued without a clinical review.
The Practice reserves the right to decline to prescribe, or to reduce or stop a prescription, where there are concerns about safety, dependence, or possible diversion (medication being given to or used by someone other than the patient it was prescribed for). Where appropriate, concerns may be shared with relevant agencies, including the Substance Misuse Team or safeguarding services.
Aggressive, threatening, or repeated inappropriate requests for these medications will be handled in line with the Practice’s zero tolerance policy.
This policy is overseen by the Practice’s lead GP for controlled drugs governance and is reviewed periodically.
Confirmation of acceptance
By receiving this information, you are confirming that you have read, understood, and agree to follow this Practice Policy.