Coeliac UK statement on prescriptions

Coeliac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) are life-long autoimmune conditions caused by an intolerance to gluten.

Once diagnosed, patients must maintain a strict gluten-free diet for life as this is the only treatment for the disease. This is not a diet of choice. If the diet is not maintained symptoms will continue and could lead to further complications such as osteoporosis, infertility and bowel cancer.

Like anyone, people with coeliac disease require a properly balanced diet including basic staples such as bread or pasta. Because of the limitations of the gluten-free diet - where wheat, barley, rye and oats have to be excluded - maintaining a balanced diet can be very difficult.

Gluten-free foods available on prescription replace the missing staples, and are recognised as helping patients adhere to their gluten-free diet.

Dietary requirements are geared to the individual and the prescription for gluten-free foods needs to take into account not only the nutritional requirements of the individual but also their lifestyle and cultural needs.

Many of the gluten-free foods available on prescription are not easily available in the supermarket and are particularly difficult to find in rural areas. In addition, the cost of gluten-free products are five to eight times more expensive than their gluten-containing counterparts. We know that for many patients they are prohibitively expensive.

The Department of Health has, therefore, provided prescriptions for people diagnosed with coeliac disease to ensure they are able to obtain these staple foods, thus maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding ill-health as a result of their coeliac disease. Well-established prescribing guidelines, endorsed by healthcare professionals, are available which set out appropriate prescribing levels based on nutritional needs. Click here to see Coeliac UK's leaflet on prescriptions.

Whilst we understand that some PCTs are experiencing budgetary pressures, Coeliac UK is concerned that stopping altogether or severely restricting gluten-free prescribing is being seen as a soft option in their attempts to reduce expenditure. This represents a short-sighted approach which could seriously damage the health of many patients.

We are committed to working with PCTs to help them meet the needs of their patients with coeliac disease and DH using the well-established guidelines that are already in place.