Prescriptions

Ordering repeat prescriptions

The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:

  • using your NHS account (through the NHS app/website or the Patient Access app/website)

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

You can also:

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

Collecting your prescription

You can usually collect your prescription from the pharmacy 3 to 5 working days after you have ordered it.

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
  • at your GP practice
  • 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.

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

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).

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.

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

Most pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without being overheard.

Prescription Fees

Help with NHS costs

In England, around 90% of prescription items are dispensed free. This includes exemptions from charging for those on low incomes, such as:

  • those on specific benefits or through the NHS Low Income Scheme
  • those who are age exempt
  • those with certain medical conditions
  • More information is available at NHS Choices

NHS Charges

In England, most adults need to pay for NHS prescriptions, currently at a cost of £9.90 per item. Certain groups are exempt from these charges, including those under 16, those in full-time education aged 16-18, and those aged 60 or over. Individuals with specific medical conditions, those receiving certain benefits, and pregnant women may also be eligible for free prescriptions. For those who regularly need prescriptions, a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) can offer significant savings. 
 
Key points about NHS prescription charges:
  • Standard Charge:
    The current cost for each prescription item in England is £9.90. 
     
  • PPC Savings:
    A Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) can be purchased for either 3 months (£32.05) or 12 months (£114.50) and covers all prescriptions during that period. 
     
Exemptions:
Certain groups are exempt from prescription charges, including children, those in full-time education aged 16-18, those aged 60 or over, and those with specific medical conditions or receiving certain benefits. 
 
HRT PPC:
There's also a Hormone Replacement Therapy Prescription Prepayment Certificate (HRT PPC) specifically for HRT medications, which can be more cost-effective for some. 
 
Where to check eligibility:
You can use the NHSBSA to check if you are eligible for free prescriptions or help with health costs. 
 
Payment Options:
You can pay for prescriptions at the pharmacy or through the NHSBSA online service. 
  • Telephone advice and order line 0845 850 0030
  • General Public - Buy or Renew a PPC On-line

There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website.

Page last reviewed: 06 January 2026
Page created: 23 December 2021