The
Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is the Government
agency responsible for ensuring that medicines are safe.
We
asked Coeliac UK for advice. They said:
“The
MHRA have informed Coeliac UK that prescribable, licensed medicines which are
listed in the BNF and MIMS (prescribing guides used by your GP) are
gluten-free.
Wheat
starch can be added to prescription medications as a tablet binding agent. If
it has been used it will be stated on the label and in the patient information
leaflet. However, wheat starch used in prescription medications is of
pharmaceutical grade and therefore highly refined and considered gluten-free.
Any medications that contain wheat starch are suitable for people with coeliac
disease.
If
buying a medicine, which has not been prescribed by your GP, Coeliac UK have
been advised that if there is a Product License (PL) number on the packet then
this would also be suitable for people with coeliac disease.
There
are European guidelines on the issue of labelling ingredients on the packaging
of medicinal products which are available from the European Medicines Agency
website:
Sometimes
medications can cause side effects that are similar to symptoms that occur
after eating gluten. These side effects should disappear once the course of medication
is complete.
Prescribed
medications should only be taken or stopped under medical advice. Do not stop
taking any medication without consulting your GP. Your GP is best placed to
advise you regarding alternative medications.
This
guidance does not cover individuals who have a wheat allergy. Individuals with
a wheat allergy should not take any medicines that contain wheat starch.
Coeliac
UK also has a helpline number 0845 305 2060 if your listener would like to
speak to one of the Charity’s diet and health team.
facebook. www.facebook.com/CoeliacUK
twitter. https://twitter.com/coeliac_uk
youtube. http://www.youtube.com/UKCoeliac
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