Recent findings from the European Medicines Agency have led to a pivotal update in the usage guidelines for the heartburn drug Motilium, also known as domperidone, by the UK's MHRA. The drug now faces restrictions due to links with cardiac complications and fatalities, particularly when misused for non-recommended conditions like heartburn or bloating.
MHRA guidelines: Practical checks when buying medicines and reading health info
The MHRA sets rules to keep medicines safe in the UK. Want to avoid unsafe products or bad advice? These simple checks help you decide fast.
Quick checks to do now
Check the licence. Legitimate UK medicines show a PL or MA number on the pack and leaflet. If you can’t find a licence number or the number looks wrong, don’t buy.
Use registered pharmacies. An online UK pharmacy should list its General Pharmaceutical Council registration, a real address and a named pharmacist. If the site hides contact details or sells prescription drugs without a prescription, leave.
Watch controlled medicines. MHRA and UK law limit some drugs. Controlled items often need a prescription plus licences for import or supply. Trying to get them from abroad can be illegal and dangerous.
Look for safety info. The patient leaflet should list side effects, interactions, dose limits and storage. Match claims on product pages to the leaflet and MHRA safety notices.
Spot fakes. Very low prices, odd packaging, missing leaflets or strange batch numbers are red flags. If a product photo looks different to what your pharmacy sells, call the manufacturer before you pay.
Reporting and getting help
If you see bad effects or suspect a fake drug, use the MHRA Yellow Card service to report it. You can also check MHRA alerts online and contact them for advice. A pharmacist or your GP can review product photos, leaflets and site details to help you decide.
Compare reviews but beware fake feedback. Prefer long histories, recent responses from sellers, and clear delivery policies. Avoid untrustworthy payment methods like wire transfers; use card payments or known processors for buyer protection.
Keep small habits that protect you. Bookmark MHRA licence and leaflet pages, check PL numbers, and confirm pharmacy registration before ordering. These few steps cut risk and save time.
Need more clarity? Our site groups articles about online pharmacies, drug safety, and product reviews under the MHRA guidelines tag. Click a post to read specific guides, like how to buy Toradol or check a pharmacy review, and talk to a pharmacist if you remain unsure.
Always check expiry dates, batch numbers and seals on medicine packs. Keep original leaflets and photos of packaging in case you need to report problems. If the tablet shape or colour changes from the leaflet guide, stop using it and ask a pharmacist.
Import rules change and depend on the medicine. For travel or personal use, check MHRA guidance first. Some drugs need a licence to bring into the UK, and customs can seize unlicensed supplies. Avoid guessing on legal limits.
If you buy a medicine online consider asking for batch and expiry details before payment. Trusted sellers share this info freely. Keep receipts and delivery tracking until you are confident the product matches the leaflet.
Protect your health: check MHRA, ask a pharmacist, and report any concerns right away. Safe ordering beats cheap risks. Act today. Now.