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GB · regulator MHRA

Medicine brand names in United Kingdom

The local brand name for each active ingredient in the United Kingdom. 21 of 22 medicines have a listed local brand. If a medicine shows "generic", ask the pharmacist for it by its ingredient name.

Medicines and their brand names in United Kingdom
Active ingredientBrand in United KingdomClassATC
ParacetamolPanadol, CalpolAnalgesic, antipyreticN02BE01
IbuprofenNurofen, BrufenNSAIDM01AE01
Co-amoxiclavAugmentinPenicillin + beta-lactamase inhibitorJ01CR02
AmoxicillinAmoxilPenicillin antibioticJ01CA04
OmeprazoleLosecProton pump inhibitorA02BC01
EsomeprazoleNexiumProton pump inhibitorA02BC05
MetforminGlucophageBiguanide antidiabeticA10BA02
AtorvastatinLipitorStatinC10AA05
AmlodipineIstinCalcium channel blockerC08CA01
LosartanCozaarAngiotensin II receptor blockerC09CA01
CetirizineZirtekAntihistamineR06AE07
LoratadineClaritynAntihistamineR06AX13
FexofenadineTelfastAntihistamineR06AX26
SalbutamolVentolinShort-acting beta-2 agonistR03AC02
MontelukastSingulairLeukotriene receptor antagonistR03DC03
LevothyroxineGenericThyroid hormoneH03AA01
DiclofenacVoltarolNSAIDM01AB05
CiprofloxacinCiproxinFluoroquinolone antibioticJ01MA02
AzithromycinZithromaxMacrolide antibioticJ01FA10
MetronidazoleFlagylNitroimidazole antimicrobialP01AB01
SertralineLustralSSRI antidepressantN06AB06
ClopidogrelPlavixAntiplateletB01AC04

Same active ingredient does not always mean the same strength, salt or release form. Check the pack and ask a local pharmacist.

Travelling to United Kingdom with medicines

  • Carry medicines in their original, labelled packs, with a copy of the prescription.
  • Write down the active ingredient and strength, not just the brand name.
  • Some medicines that are sold over the counter at home need a prescription abroad, or are restricted. Check the destination's rules before you travel.
  • If a local pack looks different, compare the strength, salt and release form (for example SR or XR) with the pharmacist.

Official source

Medicines in the United Kingdom are licensed by MHRA. Pillport checks brand names against this regulator.

Visit MHRA

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