Question
Can I buy ARVs in the UK?
27 February 2023. Related: Access to treatment, Adherence, All topics.
Hi, I moved to UK and I’m going to book my appointment with my doctor on Tuesday. My ARVs are running out, can I buy ARVs in pharmacy while I’m waiting to be registered by my doctor?
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
How many days of ARVs do you have left?
In the UK you do not need to be registered with a doctor. Access is with a sexual health clinic and you do not need a GP to use this service.
You can contact them and they may be able to offer an emergency appointment. This will prevent a delay in access. If this is not possible they may advise attending A&E for an emergency prescription.
In the UK you cannot buy ARVs from a pharmacy without a prescription.
Josh.
Hi Kudzanai, have you relocated to the UK?
In the UK treatment is free and accessed from sexual health health clinics. You can find a local clinic to you here: https://www.bashh.org/clinics
It is important you tell them you have now finished your treatment. They can offer an emergency appointment or will recommended going to A&E.
You do not need to be registered with a GP and HIV treatment in the UK is free regardless of residency status.
I relocated from Zimbabwe and my medication is finished.I was taking viropil tenofovir