Medicines and healthcare supplies – EU exit information

Grace period for medicines regulation in NI

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

There is information from the UK Government available at the following links:

• UK statement following the meeting of the Ireland/ Northern Ireland Specialised Committee - 5 November 2020
• Northern Ireland update - statement made by Lord Frost 6 September 2021

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.