Q: Are BD Micro-Fine+ pen needles 12.7mm/29 gauge black listed?
A: BD Micro-Fine+ needles are an appliance/device and so must be named in Part IXA of the Drug Tariff in order to be prescribed. The product was removed from the Drug Tariff and so can no longer be prescribed. Any remaining stock cannot be supplied on prescription as you will not be reimbursed.
The closest alternative product that is allowed on prescription is Comfort Point 12mm/29gauge listed on page 261-262 of the England/Wales Drug Tariff.
Note that BD Micro-Fine+ 5mm/31G and 8mm/31G remain listed and can be prescribed. The 4mm/32G needle has been renamed BD Micro-Fine Ultra and is listed in the tariff.
This tariff change applies to England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Please note that BD Micro-Fine+ insulin syringes are NOT affected and all sizes remain listed in the tariff.
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If you have any questions about the Drug Tariff - send Sue a message or call Information Services on 0800 783 5709 option 2.