Does insurance cover UTI prevention supplements?
NHS insurance does not fund dietary supplements like cranberry, D‑mannose or probiotics for UTI prevention. These must be self‑funded and are not routinely prescribed.
Detailed Medical Explanation
In the UK, the NHS does not routinely cover or prescribe non‑drug supplements such as cranberry products, D‑mannose or probiotics for UTI prevention. While cranberry and D‑mannose have been widely used, recent evidence—particularly a NIHR‑supported trial in JAMA Internal Medicine 2024—found that D‑mannose did not significantly reduce UTI recurrence. NICE guidelines do not include these supplements as standard prophylaxis, instead advising clinical assessment and evidence‑based preventive measures.
Clinical Context
Supplements like cranberry or D‑mannose are popular among women with recurrent UTIs, but NHS does not cover them. Post‑menopausal women may derive more benefit from interventions such as topical oestrogen, as advised by NHS or NICE guidance.
Evidence-Based Approaches
Guidelines from NICE recommend considering low‑dose antibiotic prophylaxis for recurrent UTIs, and vaginal oestrogen for post‑menopausal women. Supplements are not currently part of these recommendations. See: NICE NG112.