Background

Jason is 38. His depression and anxiety have been managed by an antidepressant (Drug A) for some time. But Drug A recently stopped being manufactured in the UK and is no longer a recommended treatment.

Six weeks ago, Jason saw Dr Williams and reluctantly agreed to taper off Drug A and start a recommended treatment (Drug B).

At that appointment, he expressed interest in being prescribed a new medication (Drug C) that he’s read about online. He explained to Dr Williams that members of online forums that he’s a part of have suggested Drug C is similar to his previous medication, Drug A, and has been really good for them. 

Today, Jason is coming back for his follow-up appointment. After tapering off Drug A, Jason began taking Drug B four weeks ago. He explains that after two weeks he wasn’t happy because he hadn’t seen any benefit from the medication and feels it isn’t helping him. Jason tells Dr Williams that he stopped taking Drug B after two weeks. Dr Williams acknowledges Jason’s dissatisfaction but tells him that she’s concerned about his wellbeing and that, if he continues without any medication, then his condition may continue to worsen. 

She explains that she’s looked into Drug C, which he’s asking for, and found out that it is licensed in the UK, but not for treating depression. She explains to Jason that prescribing unlicensed medication is generally only done in circumstances where there’s not a licensed medication to meet the patient’s need. Dr Williams thinks Drug B, which she’s already prescribed, is his best option for the time being and will meet Jason’s need. But she provides reassurance that they will continue to monitor, follow-up and – if needed – review the medication in due course.

Jason questions why Dr Williams can’t prescribe Drug C as an unlicensed medicine. He feels that he is an expert in his own condition and knows what does and what doesn’t work for him.