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: SystmOnline
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.
Collecting your prescription
We aim to process repeat medication requests within 2 working days. Once issued, please allow time for your pharmacy to dispense.
Repeat medication should be ordered no earlier than 1 week before it is due.
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 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:
- fill out a general medication question form
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.
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.
Pharmacy First
The new Pharmacy First scheme enables your local pharmacy to treat some common conditions with prescription-only medicines, without you visiting your GP.
What is Pharmacy First?
Patients across England can now get prescription-only treatment for seven common conditions at their local high street pharmacy, without needing to see a GP.
This can include prescribing and supplying antibiotics and antivirals where clinically appropriate.
What conditions can be treated at my pharmacy?
Your local pharmacy can now supply prescription-only treatment, if they believe you need it, for the following conditions:
- Sinusitis (for patients aged 12 years and over only)
- Sore throat (aged 5+)
- Earache (aged 1 year-17)
- Infected insect bite (aged 1 year+)
- Impetigo (aged 18 years+)
- Shingles (aged 18 years+)
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (women aged 16 to 64)
How does it work?
If you are feeling unwell with any of these conditions, you can go to your local participating pharmacy and ask for a private consultation with the pharmacist.
You may also be referred by a GP practice if they don’t have any appointments and believe your pharmacy can help. The 111 helpline service may also refer you. Pharmacists can also offer this service on-the-spot if you go in asking generally for help.
Pharmacists may offer a virtual consultation by phone or video call, or in person in a private room in the pharmacy. They will ask questions, may perform an examination and must get your consent to access your medical records. The pharmacist will be able to recommend the best course of action based on your clinical needs. This might include issuing prescriptions for antibiotics or antivirals where necessary or advising you on over the counter treatments that could help.