Repeat prescriptions are medications which appear on the reverse of your prescription which your doctor would like you to continue on a regular basis.
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
- you may hand in your computer slip or a note with your name, address, date of birth and the medication required written clearly
- set up a direct repeat prescription order through your local pharmacy
- by post
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription 2 working days after you have ordered it.
Please note if your prescription request is not on your repeat prescription your request will take longer to process and the doctor may wish to speak with you.
Delays may also occur if your medication request is different from what your doctor has prescribed for you.
We will return your prescription to you by post if a stamped addressed envelope is provided.
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
Emergency prescription requests
Emergency prescription request are request for medication which you need within 24 hours to prevent you becoming severely unwell. Emergency medications include; epileptic medication, insulin, inhalers for lung conditions, emergency contraception and Epipen for anaphylaxis.
Emergency prescription requests are not requests for medication which have been ordered late. You should allow 48 working hours for routine repeat prescription requests. Please respect our staff, as it is your responsibility to ensure that your repeat prescription request is ordered in plenty of time.
How to order a non-repeat prescription
If you have an ongoing problem and would like another prescription of a medication previously prescribed to you by the doctor you may request another script. Please let us know the reason for your request and a contact number, in order for the doctor to review your request. Non-repeat medication request will take over 48 working hours to process and the doctor may wish to speak with you.
Why does it take 48 hours to process a repeat prescription request?
Our prescription clerk has to check your medical records to ensure that your medication request is on your repeat prescription, then print it and give it to your doctor. Between clinics, your doctor will double check the medication to ensure that it is still appropriate for you. Then one of our admin team will file your prescription ready for collection.
Delays may occur if your medication request is not on your repeat prescription or if your medication request is different from what your doctor has prescribed for you or if your doctor wished to change your medication.
New patient prescriptions
Welcome to the surgery, if you normally take regular repeat medication please let us know by:
- giving us a copy of your repeat prescription slip
- give us a copy of your medication label on your medication box or bottle which has your name, medication dosage and date
We will automatically put this on your repeat prescription here at the surgery. Please allow 2 working days for a prescription request.
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)
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 room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff.