The British government has indefinitely banned the use of puberty blockers for individuals under 18, following expert advice that labeled their use as an “unacceptable safety risk.”
Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced the decision Wednesday, emphasizing the need for caution when dealing with vulnerable young people.
This ban builds on temporary restrictions imposed earlier this year, which stopped the routine prescription of puberty blockers to minors and limited their availability to clinical trials. The government’s move follows a damning review of gender identity services in the UK, which found unreliable studies on gender dysphoria treatments and little focus on those who later regret transitioning.
The Department for Health and Social Care acted on recommendations from the Commission on Human Medicines, ensuring that the ban remains in place indefinitely. Legislation is set to formalize the policy, with a review scheduled for 2027.
Streeting stated, “We need to act with caution and care when it comes to this vulnerable group of young people, and follow the expert advice.” He also promised to expand gender identity services across the country.
The government plans to launch clinical trials next year to further study the impact of puberty blockers. For now, though, the UK has taken a firm stand, prioritizing the safety of children over experimental treatments driven by ideology.
