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)
• using another GP online system, such as Patient Access, MyGP

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

You can also:

• during office hours, drop the counterfoil into the post box provided on the wall in reception
• out of hours, post the counterfoil through the letterbox
• post the counterfoil to the surgery

We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone, with the exception of housebound patients.

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:

• use the Accurx service
• phone us on 01744 882606

Generic medicines

What is a generic medicine?

New drugs are developed by drug companies who patent them and give them a special brand name. This is so that other companies cannot copy them.  It also helps people to remember the name of their medicine. The other name for a medicine is its generic name. After the patent has run out for a branded medicine other companies can manufacture it under a generic name. The medicine is just as safe and effective as the original branded product but it is usually much cheaper as these companies have not incurred the costs involved in researching the product.  Using generic medicines saves the NHS millions of pounds and allows money to be spent in other areas.

Why do generic medicines look different?

The original colour and shape of branded medicines are sometimes included in the patent so you may notice that your generic medicines are different in colour, size, shape and even taste. This does not alter the effect of the medicine.

Checklist for patients

Discuss any worries about your medicines with your pharmacist or doctor. Know your medication by its generic name and strength. Generic prescribing is simple and can save the NHS money. You and other patients can benefit from this extra money and the improvements to healthcare that it can bring.

Medication reviews

Patients on repeat medication will be asked to see a doctor, nurse practitioner or practice nurse at least once a year to review these regular medications and notification should appear on your repeat slip.

Please ensure that you book an appropriate appointment to avoid unnecessary delays to further prescriptions.

Prescription charges and exemptions

Extensive exemption and remission arrangements protect those likely to have difficulty in paying charges (NHS prescription and dental charges, optical and hospital travel costs).

The NHS prescription charge is a flat-rate amount which successive Governments have thought it reasonable to charge for those who can afford to pay for their medicines. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.

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

What to do with old medicines

Take it to a pharmacy, ideally the pharmacy from which you got it. 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.