What you should know about a special

A Special is an unlicensed medicine that has to be made especially for you to suit your needs.
The doctor will tell you if you have been prescribed a Special and why.
There are several reasons why you may have been prescribed a Special. For example, you may be allergic to the normal medicine, or you may have difficulty swallowing tablets and need the medicine made in a different formulation. Quite often the licensed medicine is currently not available.
The doctor will tell the pharmacist what needs to be in your medication and they will order your medication from a licensed 'Specials manufacturer'. Licensed Specials manufacturers have proved that they follow certain quality standards processes and are regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
You must follow the instructions for taking the medication that will be provided with the medicine.
All medicines, whether they are licensed or not, can occasionally cause side effects. If you have any serious side effects then you must tell your doctor or pharmacist who have a duty of care to you and will be able to help you. They will also report these side effects to the MHRA.
Your doctor and pharmacist will do their best to get you your medicine as soon as possible, however because your medicine is ordered and sometimes made especially for you, you may have to collect it the following day.

If you have any questions please contact your doctor or pharmacist.