Colofac (mebeverine): Reviews and patient testimonials

I was prescribed Colofac and Colpermin way back in early 1980s. They were very effective in assisting in treating and relieving my bowel problem. I would estimate a reduction in pain and problems by 70% whilst using this treatment. However, in more recent years and following changes in GPs and the introduction of pharmacists within GP centres there were calls from NHS to reduce costs. One of the significant ways to do this was to commence using generic medications wherever possible. Instead of being prescribed Colofac and Colpermin I started to receive generic Mebeverine Hydrochloride and Peppermint Oil. Whilst the root content of the medications may be the same, the release times and applications to the problem have either been completely changed or withdrawn completely thereby nullifying the effectiveness of the treatment. Consultants prescribe specific named medications for a definite reason - if a generic would serve the purpose then it would usually be prescribed. Try persuading a local pharmacist [and some GPs] that you require named medications and you will often have significant problems, often resulting in the Consultant having to write and instruct the local practice only for it all to occur again when staff change. I take 34 different medications, of which quite a number are specifically named - imagine the problems when the pharmacist/GP does a review ....!  To return to the original commentary,  in my opinion Colofac is usually a good treatment for many bowel disorders.