HRT - charged for 2 prescriptions!

[FleetwoodRaincoat]

Just trying HRT for the second time. Went to collect my prescription and I'm charged double "because it contains 2 different types of pills"!

I've checked the guidelines - Elleste Duet is a double charge, Novofem is not, despite their being exactly the same! Really annoyed by this. I know it's not much to pay per year, but it's the principle of it.

Absolutely. That's why we're fighting with Carolyn Harris MP to stop HRT charges. It is disgusting that women have to pay double charge when the majority of us have to take oestrogen and progesterone. It's like ordering a pizza only to be told you have to pay for the tomato and cheese on top.

If it's ongoing the prescription prepayment certificate is worthwhile. I think it's around £10 a month for any number of items.

This was what prompted me to go prepaid
Outrageous when you can't have one without the other

I was charged double for Novofem! Where do I find these guidelines?

Not sure where I found the info now. It's to do with NICE guidelines though.

Maybe novofem was on it. I had Novofem before and was only charged once, so assumed it wasn't listed. Maybe I just got lucky!

Prescriptions are charged per prescribed item so whether it's 2 items of HRT or 1 x HRT and 1 say for IBS or depression
It's 2 items regardless
Pre-paid is the way to go if you need a lot of items you'll need to check to see what works best for you

When I had the combined sequential HRT pills ie 1 packet, it was still charged as 2 items. OK, it makes sense now I have two different products, but that seemed to be a piss take.

Yep it’s mad isn’t it. I’m on gel and the coil now so only pay for the gel I was on utrogestan instead but it didn’t suit me. I would have payed if it did though I was a mess before!

@Jamn50

Yep it’s mad isn’t it. I’m on gel and the coil now so only pay for the gel I was on utrogestan instead but it didn’t suit me. I would have payed if it did though I was a mess before!

Could I ask what the problem was with Utrogestan please?

I've been using it for around 6 months, with horrible side effects around sleeping too much, severe fatigue, could not go throughout the day without sleeping, constant brain fog and feeling as though I'd drank half a bottle of vodka the night before.

I've recently switched from taking oral tablets to using it vaginally, but I've become really constipated and I'm not sure if it's linked to Utrogestan?

As for prescription charges - a pre payment is the way to go.

I'm on estelle duet and have never been charged double.

I am on novofem and yes, I get two charges, the woman in the pharmacy always winces when she says she is sorry it is two charges and then says "if men had this it would be free".

@Clarice99
When I had the utrogestan it brought on my anxiety again really bad so the nurse squeezed me in for the coil. Some say after 6 months they got used to it I couldn’t wait that long! Progesterone can cause constipation yes it’s probably that. Xxx

The prepay certificate is about £120 a year. Its worth it if you're on HRT

Thanks for your reply @Jamn50

If this regime doesn't suit me, MIrena might be an option.

@Clarice99 100% the menopause doctor says utrogestan or the coil are the best options. But there are so many options out there. Xx