Prescriptions

Ordering repeat prescriptions

The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:

• using your NHS account (through the NHS website or in the NHS App)

These accounts show you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.

You can also:

• fill out a repeat prescriptions request form

We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone or email.

If you need to take medication on a regular basis your doctor may decide to issue you with repeat prescriptions which will remove the necessity for you to be seen every time you need a fresh supply of medicines.

All repeat prescriptions are produced on the practice computer system and you will be given a repeat slip listing the medication that you can order without seeing the doctor.

Good medication management is important

Please preempt ordering prescriptions to avoid medication running out.

If you are given 56 days of tablets and you have 7 days left, order your new prescription. In the case of any emergency your regular pharmacist will give you a couple of tablets until you get your new prescription.

It is good practice that repeat medication is regularly reviewed so that you get optimum care. Please make note of the review date and make an appointment to see the doctor.

If you are going on holiday you should take a list of your medication with you. In case you have a problem ensure you have enough medication to cover your holiday. Some countries also need a doctor’s letter to explain the medication. Check with your travel agent.

If you have elderly relatives ensure that they have an adequate supply of their medication. Dossette boxes/blister packs can be arranged if they have a large amount of medication to take.

Collecting your prescription

You will need to choose a pharmacy to collect your prescription from. We call this nominating a pharmacy.

You can change your nominated pharmacy at any time:

• on the app or website where you order repeat prescriptions
• fill out a nominate a pharmacy or other dispenser form
• at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions

Questions about your prescription

If you have questions about your medicine, your local pharmacists can answer these. They can also answer questions on medicines you can buy without a prescription.

The NHS website has information on how your medicine works, how and when to take it, possible side effects and answers to your common questions.

Go to Medicines A to Z (nhs.uk)

If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription:

• fill out an ask a prescription question form

Useful information

Each drug has two names, the generic and the brand name. Where possible we use the generic name because this is usually much cheaper for the health service. Due to this, you may notice a change in colour, shape or size of your drug. Do not be concerned by this, you are still receiving the same drug of the same quality, it is only the appearance that has altered.

Please book your medications review appointment at least 10 days before your medication runs out.

Medication reviews

If you have a repeat prescription, we may ask you to come in for a regular review. We will be in touch when you need to come in for a review.

Prescription charges

Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).

Free prescriptions

Medicines are free to: pensioners, children under 16, people under 19 years old and in full time education, pregnant or nursing mothers, and people suffering from one of a number of specified individual conditions, people on income support or family credit.

What to do with old medicines

Take it to the pharmacy you got it from or bring it in to the surgery. Do not put it in your household bin or flush it down the toilet.

About pharmacists

As qualified healthcare professionals, pharmacists can offer advice on minor illnesses such as:

• coughs
• colds
• sore throats
• tummy trouble
• aches and pains

They can also advise on medicine that you can buy without a prescription.

Find a pharmacy (nhs.uk)

Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.

Most pharmacies have a private room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff.