Hydroxychloroquine is a medication primarily used to treat malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. In the United Kingdom, including Brent, it is classified as a prescription-only medicine (POM), meaning it cannot be purchased over the counter and requires a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional. buy hydroxychloroquine
Obtaining a Prescription
To acquire hydroxychloroquine, follow these steps:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Schedule an appointment with your General Practitioner (GP) or a specialist relevant to your condition. During the consultation, discuss your symptoms and medical history. If deemed appropriate, the doctor will prescribe hydroxychloroquine.
- Prescription Details: Ensure the prescription specifies the required dosage and, if necessary, the preferred brand. This is important because different brands may contain varying inactive ingredients, which can affect tolerability.
Filling the Prescription – buy hydroxychloroquine
Once you have the prescription:
- Local Pharmacies: Present the prescription at a local pharmacy in Brent. Pharmacists will dispense the medication as per the doctor’s instructions. It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm the availability of hydroxychloroquine, as stock levels can vary.
- Online Pharmacies: Some UK-based online pharmacies can dispense prescription medications. You’ll need to provide a valid prescription, which can often be uploaded digitally. Ensure the online pharmacy is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) to guarantee safety and authenticity.
Considerations When Choosing a Brand
Hydroxychloroquine is available under various brand names, such as Plaquenil, and from different manufacturers. While the active ingredient remains consistent, inactive components might differ, potentially affecting tolerability. For instance, the Zentiva version of hydroxychloroquine experienced supply issues in the past. As of January 2024, it is back in stock in the UK. citeturn0search1 If you have previously used a specific brand without issues, inform your doctor and pharmacist to maintain consistency.
Potential Supply Issues
There have been periods when hydroxychloroquine faced supply shortages. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK government purchased significant quantities of hydroxychloroquine as part of efforts to explore its efficacy against the virus. citeturn0search0 Such bulk purchases can impact availability for patients using the medication for approved indications. If your usual pharmacy is out of stock, consider checking with other local pharmacies or consult your doctor for alternatives.
Safety and Monitoring
Regular monitoring is essential when taking hydroxychloroquine, especially for chronic conditions:
- Eye Examinations: Long-term use can affect the retina. The NHS recommends regular eye tests to detect any early changes. citeturn0search3
- Blood Tests: Periodic blood tests may be necessary to monitor for potential side effects.
- Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you’re taking to avoid adverse interactions.
