Ophelia wrote:


I wasn't aware of that I read today that the NHS is to allow pharmacists
to change prescriptions, issued by doctors, to give cheaper generic meds.


And I wasn't aware of that!

Already there is a major issue with thyroxine-takers getting different
effects from different 'brands'[1] each time they get their
prescriptions fulfilled. Despite being only prescribed as generic[2],
many people manage to persuade their pharmacies to stick to one brand -
but that is at the pharmacies' discretion. And even within a brand they
vary in formulation[3].

[1] All thyroxine generics in the UK have some sort of band name but
are technically generics.
[2] The odd person does get prescribed the one official brand Eltroxin.
[3] Some of these generics are actually different formulations by
dosage. That is, Goldshield 25mcg is different to Goldshield 50mcg - but
the same as Eltroxin 25mcg.

--
Rod