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Medicines and healthcare supplies – EU exit information

Since 1 January 2021 there have been changes to medicines regulations due to EU Exit and the introduction of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Grace period for medicines regulation in NI

The UK and the EU agreed a phased process for implementing medicines regulation in Northern Ireland.

On 17 December 2021 the EU Commission announced proposals on medicine supply issues in the context of the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol and published a written statement.

The EU Commission’s proposals were adopted into legislation following their publication in the Official Journal of the European Union (EU) on 20 April 2022. Further information can be at the following link:

  • Publications Office of the EU 

Work is continuing to take place to make sure the supply of medicines, medical devices and other healthcare supplies are maintained and that the people of Northern Ireland continue to have access to these supplies.

Continued access to medicines

Plans are in place to make sure you continue to get the medicines you need.

You should order prescriptions and take your medicines as normal. There is no need to order extra prescriptions.

Always follow the advice of GPs and other health professionals who prescribe your medicines and medical products.

If you have any concerns, talk to your pharmacist or GP.

GPs have been advised to continue to prescribe medicines and medical products as normal.

Arrangements for supply disruptions

Shortages of medicines and other medical supplies are not uncommon for reasons unconnected to the UK’s exit from the EU.

There are already national and locally tried-and-tested arrangements in place for dealing with any supply disruptions to make sure that you continue to get the medicines and medical supplies you need.

If this happens, you will be prescribed the best alternative to your usual medication, as is normal practice.

This will make sure that your treatment continues as normal.

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Leaving the EU (Brexit)

  • Agriculture - EU exit information
  • Business - EU exit information
  • EU exit and the Northern Ireland Protocol
  • Financial services, banking and consumer issues - EU exit information
  • Find a job in Republic of Ireland
  • Medicines and healthcare supplies – EU exit information
  • Staying in Northern Ireland if you’re an EU citizen
  • Travel and transport - EU exit information
  • Working in Northern Ireland

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