WHAT TO DO IF YOU’VE BEEN DENIED HUMIRA

■ YOU CAN SAY NO:

Patients have the right to refuse any medication or treatment. According to the Patients Association, switching from a biologic (like Humira) to a biosimilar ‘is a clinical decision and the

patient has to agree to it’.

■ ASK TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR:

Some patients are not being asked for their consent and are being told only by letter that their drug is being changed. Ask to see or speak to your doctor and get them to explain why they think the change may benefit you.

■ PUT IT IN WRITING:

If you’re still not happy, write to the practice manager (if your GP is managing your care) or, if it’s a hospital, the trust’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), which will investigate on your behalf.

■ QUOTE THE EXPERTS:

The British Society for Rheumatology says patients should be switched back

(for example to Humira) if the biosimilar is less effective, or if the patient has significant new side effects or finds the device they have to use to take the biosimilar difficult to use.

● A short video on switching to biosimilar drugs is available at patients-association.org.uk.