Ban on puberty blockers remains indefinitely

The UK government has announced an indefinite ban on puberty blockers for under-18s after advice from experts raised concerns about safety and insufficient evidence on their benefits.

Health Minister Maria Caulfield stated, “We must ensure that young people are supported through their care, not rushed into life-changing decisions.”

The ban aligns with findings from the Cass Review and the Commission on Human Medicines, citing limited data on the long-term effects of these treatments.

Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting supported the ban, emphasising the need for safeguarding and robust evidence-based decisions. He said, “We need to act with caution and care when it comes to this vulnerable group of young people, and follow the expert advice.”

The ban will uphold restrictions on puberty blockers prescribed by private UK-based providers for gender incongruence or dysphoria in under-18s who are not already receiving them. It also prohibits the sale and supply of these medications by prescribers from the European Economic Area or Switzerland to individuals under 18 for any reason.