Changes in the Prescribing of Testosterone

There has been an update in local guidance that affects how testosterone treatment is provided through NHS services, including our practice.

Our Integrated Care Board (ICB), who are responsible for the planning and commissioning of local NHS services, has recently clarified that testosterone should only be initiated and managed by a healthcare professional with specialist expertise in menopause care. This means that general practices are not expected to initiate or continue testosterone treatment, unless it is under the direction of an appropriately qualified British Menopause Society (BMS) specialist.

In line with this updated guidance, Lancaster Medical Practice has made the decision to discontinue all prescribing of testosterone. To continue accessing this treatment, you would need to be referred to an NHS specialist menopause service or be under the ongoing care of a clinician who meets the BMS definition of a menopause specialist.

While we understand this may be disappointing, this decision ensures we are providing safe, evidence-based care that aligns with current national and local standards. Continuing to prescribe testosterone would require our clinicians to undertake additional specialist training beyond the scope of what General Practice is commissioned to deliver within the NHS.

Thank you for your understanding.