MHRA News: £14bn opportunity identified through medicine reclassification

12th March 2026

Summary:
New analysis has identified a potential £14 billion opportunity for the UK through the reclassification of certain medicines from prescription only to pharmacy or general sale status. The report highlights how appropriate reclassification could improve patient access to treatments, reduce pressure on healthcare services and support economic growth in the life sciences sector. By enabling more medicines to be supplied directly through pharmacies or over the counter where safe and appropriate, patients may be able to access treatment more quickly without the need for a GP appointment. The initiative is part of wider efforts to modernise healthcare access and strengthen the UK’s position as a leading environment for life sciences innovation.

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/the-14bn-opportunity-how-reclassification-can-transform-healthcare-improve-access-to-medicines-and-enable-growth

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