DOHA: Several patients using Eltroxin (levothyroxine), the most common drug used to treat hypothyroidism, say that they have been hit by a recent decision of the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) making a prescription mandatory to buy the medicine.
SCH sources said that the decision was intended to prevent a possible misuse or wrong use of the medicine, which can cause serious side effects.
Excessive use of L-thyroxine can lead to weight loss and serious health problems, including irregular heartbeat, angina, heart attack and a loss of bone mass. In severe cases it can lead to osteoporosis (extremely porous bones).
However, medical sources say that they have no knowledge of a rampant misuse of the tablet.
People suffering from hypothyroidism are required to take the pill for long periods continuously.
Like many other countries, the medicine was sold in Qatar over the counter until a prescription was made mandatory about two months ago.
“I have been using Eltroxin for the past three years and I am supposed to take it lifelong. Now I have to visit a doctor every time I want to buy the tablet. Some doctors and clinics would insist on elaborate tests that could cost QR350 on an average. With one prescription, I can buy the tablet for a maximum three months period,” said a concerned patient.
Some pharmacists said they found it difficult to explain the new rule to their customers.
“They are surprised when we tell them that we cannot give the medicine without a prescription since it is very commonly used and easily available in many countries,” said a pharmacist.
A private physician said that continuous use of the medicine without periodic medical checkup can cause serious side effects.
“Hypothyroidism patients should undergo medical examination at least once in every three months to adjust the dose. An overdose of Eltroxin can cause many side effects, especially palpitation,” he said.
He said a prescription is now mandatory for many other medicines, especially those used to treat erectile dysfunction or impotency among men. This has caused an increase in the number of people visiting private clinics just for a medical prescription, he added.
tThe Peninsula
