Prescriptions

Non-urgent advice: Why can’t I get a prescription for an over-the-counter medicine?

Please don’t ask your GP for medicines which can be bought at the pharmacy. A GP, nurse or pharmacist will generally not give you a prescription for over-the-counter (OTC) medicines for a range of minor health conditions.

Further information about OTC medicines is available from NHS UK

Ordering repeat prescriptions

The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:

using your NHS account (through the NHS website or in the NHS App)
using the GP online system Patient Access

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
bring the paper form to the surgery, during opening hours

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

Request prescription using GP online system

Manage repeat prescriptions via our online service. Log in and select an option. To access Patient Services, please register in person at the surgery (bring personal ID with you). This will enable you to access online appointment and prescription services.

Please enquire with reception who will be happy to assist with the process as you will need to provide an email address and create an online account at home.

Not registered for Online Services yet? Request medication online without a log in with the Prescription Request Form.

Collecting your prescription

Give at least of 72 hours’ notice (3 full working days). Please allow extra time for weekends and bank holidays.

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. This means that you do not have to come to the surgery to collect your prescription and then take it to a chemist.

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.

Go to the Medicines A to Z

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.

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 near you

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

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