Disclaimer

Although we take care to ensure accuracy, Macmillan Cancer Support does not accept liability for the information and materials provided or referenced in Ask an Expert or for any errors or omissions in them, or for third-party information or services such as other websites we may link to. The information and materials provided or referenced in Ask an Expert are for information purposes only and are not intended to be legal, financial or medical advice or opinions. If you need more details on your rights, please contact a financial, legal or other appropriate adviser.

We recommend that you consult your doctor if you are concerned about your health. Any You should not rely on any information and materials provided or referenced in Ask an Expert including by our Experts as they are not a replacement for advice, diagnosis or treatment from your medical team, and our Experts cannot provide a second opinion to that of your medical team.

Your question can be read by others – so please don't post your contact details or any other information that could personally identify you. Please read our Terms and Conditions and Community Guidelines for more details.

Ensure drinks on Prescription

Skimmy
  • 2 replies
  • 44 subscribers
  • 178 views

My hubby's GP, Scotland, has now after 4months declined to prescribe ensure plus drinks . He was initially prescribed after 1and half stone weight loss and appetite loss, he has regained 1stone .

His stage 4 kidney cancer has further spread to his bones and a new cancer drug started , his taste and appetite have not returned and these drinks where helping him gain and retain his weight,  his consultant has advised him to continue with them but GP has now declined

Question is there anywhere that these can be purchased relatively cheaply I'm being quoted on average £20/30 for 12/15 packs but he's on 2 per day ?

Any suggestions  other than Amazon or online pharmacy as too pricey 

  • Update , my hubby's specialist nurse has now referred him to a dietician to see if they can help him source drinks ty x

  • in reply to Skimmy

    Hello Skimmy,

    Thanks for getting in touch, and for the update.

    I can see from your profile that you are a member of our online community, and I hope you’re finding it a good source of information and support.

    My name is Carole and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

    It can be difficult to maintain weight with taste changes and a poor appetite, although we’re pleased to read that your hubby has regained some of the weight he lost.

    It’s also good to read that his specialist nurse has referred him to a dietician.

    They’ll be able to advise on which foods are best to eat, and about supplements.

    And you could ask them whether any of these tips on our website about managing taste changes and poor appetite might help.

    Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch here, and you are welcome to give us a call on the Support Line too. We are open every day, between 8am and 8pm. You can chat to us online too, if you prefer.

    Sending my best wishes,

    Carole

    Our ref: RH

Help us do whatever it takes, because we’ve never been needed more.

© Macmillan Cancer Support 2026 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007