Neurologists

[Trevbet]

I have been advised by my GP that a Neurologist Consultant has told her that he is not able to prescribe the drug Aricept. That is, not empowered to do so for any patient. Aricept is appropriate for mild to moderate Altzeimers Disease.
Can this be correct?

[black_cat51]

yes, it can be

[Sqad]

I am not an expert..........but Aricept can be prescribed on the NHS.

[ferlew]

Mr F is on Aricept, and has been for the last 2/3 years - I believe it can be a bit of a postcode lottery whether practices prescribe or not.

[Buenchico]

Here's the official guidance on the use of Donepezil (from NICE):
http://www.nice.org.uk/newsroom/pressreleases/AlzheimersMTAReviewPublication.jsp
and an examination of relevant research by the NHS:
http://www.nhs.uk/news/2012/03march/Pages/alzheimer-treatment-with-donepezil-memantine.aspx

I can find no reason why any doctor should be barred from prescribing it except, possibly, that a prescription specifically naming 'Aricept' (rather than using the generic name 'Donepezil') might incur unnecessary costs for the health authority. (i.e. perhaps the consultant is only prohibited from prescribing the drug under its expensive brand name, rather than altogether?)

[Peter Pedant]

erm not sure
but isnt this - the consultant cant rx aricept so the GP has to ?

It is all to do with erm money moolah.

When I was being given chemo - I had to go to my G P for one of the droogz - septrin I think.

[pixie373]

The GP can prescribe it, not sure why the neurologist can't. Have they given you any reason why you (or the person concerned) shouldn't be taking it?