Gender Service, Sandyford: Information on Bridging Prescriptions (updated 10/02/23)

We encourage patients to wait until they have been assessed by a gender specialist before starting treatment because gender affirming hormone therapy has irreversible effects such as deepening of the voice and balding (testosterone) and breast enlargement (estradiol).

In certain circumstances a GP can opt to provide bridging prescriptions.

• Guidance on when it is appropriate to prescribe is available from the General Medical Council.
• The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland  also provides advice. 
• Guidance on what to prescribe and how to monitor treatment is available in the endocrine guidelines of the National Gender Identity Clinical Network for Scotland. 

The Gender Service pages of the Sandyford website contains information about waiting times and resources for professionals, patients and families.