Whaddon HealthcareWe regularly review the medicines that we prescribe to check that we are using the most effective and good value medicines. Based on contemporary NHS guidelines, we have decided to review the prescribing of all of vitamin D maintenance therapy.
Public Health England advises that Vitamin D supplements to protect and maintain bone, teeth and muscle health is considered a personal responsibility. Vitamin D supplements are readily available at a low cost from pharmacies, health food stores and most supermarkets.
Vitamin D tablets have traditionally been prescribed on the NHS for patients diagnosed with a deficiency. This treatment consists of a short course of high dose of Vitamin D and will continue to be prescribed. Vitamin D tablets prescribed as a supplement to maintain normal levels in patients known to be at high risk of deficiency or after completing a course of high dose Vitamin D in the past for a deficiency will no longer be routinely prescribed by your GP.
Public Health England has advised healthcare professionals not to carry out routine testing of levels, unless they have specific clinical reasons or concerns, even if you have received a treatment course. Therefore, the best way to ensure you have adequate levels of Vitamin D all year round is to consider the use of supplements.
If you intend to purchase this supplement and continue taking it please let your GP know so they can make a note of this in your record.
We do not expect you to notice any difference when your prescription is stopped. However, should you have any questions or experience any problems, please ask to speak to your community pharmacist, practice nurse or doctor.