Source · Select Committees · Health and Social Care Committee
Recommendation 23
23
Rejected
Paragraph: 123
Review dermal filler licensing to make them prescription-only substances, like Botox.
Recommendation
We recommend that the Department review the licencing of dermal fillers to be prescription-only substances, in line with Botox, in order to provide more protection for people undertaking procedures involving dermal fillers.
Government Response Summary
The government rejects the recommendation to make dermal fillers prescription-only, stating there are no current plans to do so because they are classified as medical devices rather than medicinal products like Botox. However, they note that the MHRA intends to introduce more stringent rules for dermal fillers under UK medical device regulations.
Paragraph Reference:
123
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
The government recognises that there are significant physical and psychological risks that cosmetic fillers (commonly known as ‘dermal fillers’) present to members of the public. Filler products can be used for medical treatment or for aesthetic purposes. In England, the Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act 2021 prohibits the availability of ‘Botox’ and dermal fillers to under-18s for cosmetic purposes. Currently, a dermal filler may be regulated either as a general product, a medicine or a medical device, depending on its composition and intended use. Fillers classified as general products are not subject to licensing or manufacturing controls, and do not need a prescription to be obtained. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for the regulation of medical devices, and intends to bring in more stringent rules for certain aesthetic and non-medical products, including dermal fillers, under the UK medical devices regulations. There are no current plans for MHRA to make dermal fillers prescription only. Unlike Botox, dermal fillers cannot be covered by the existing prescription-only medicine framework because they are medical devices rather than medicinal products. We strongly encourage anyone considering dermal fillers to take the time to find a reputable, insured and qualified practitioner.