Ordering repeat prescriptions
Only Order What you Need
Before ordering a repeat prescription check what you already have. Gloucestershire throws away thousands of unused repeat prescriptions every year.
If you have enough medicine at home, there’s no need to request more this time – you can request more in the future.
Be mindful when ordering repeat prescriptions – only order what you need to stay well.
If, however, you do need to order more, the easiest way to order repeat prescriptions are:
- using your NHS account (through the NHS website or in the NHS App)
- using the GP online system: SystmOnline Patient Services
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 or
- go to your nominated pharmacy
We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone or email.
Collecting your prescription
Your prescription is usually issued upto 5 working days after being requested.
You can change your nominated pharmacy at any time:
- on the app or website where you order repeat prescriptions
- at the surgery or 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:
- phone our pharmacist after 10am on 01452 543 000
- fill out an ask a prescription 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 (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
Pharmacists can also issue prescriptions for 7 common conditions under the Pharmacy First Scheme.
What is Pharmacy First ?
Pharmacy First is an NHS initiative that makes it easy for you to get healthcare advice and treatment for common conditions through your local pharmacy. No need for a GP appointment or prescription for issues like:
- Sinusitis
- Sore throats
- Earaches
- Infected insect bites
- Impetigo
- Shingles
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women
How can Pharmacy First help ?
Pharmacy First provides prompt treatment and advice for these common conditions. Pharmacists might offer over the counter or prescription medications based on your needs, and all consultations are private. You can also be referred by NHS services like NHS 111 or your GP. Pharmacy First is here to make getting the care you need simpler and faster.
Additional Support from Pharmacies
- Minor Ailments: Pharmacists can help with a variety of everyday health issues such as colds, flu, aches, pains, rashes, and cystitis. They can also assist with pregnancy tests, and needle exchange services. No appointment is needed, and they will refer you to a doctor if necessary.
- Medication Advice: Pharmacists are experts in safely using medicines. If you have questions about your prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs, they can provide guidance. For new long-term medications, the New Medicine Service offers ongoing support. If you take multiple medicines, the Medicines Use Review (MUR) can help ensure you’re using them correctly.
- Repeat Prescriptions: Pharmacists can manage your repeat prescriptions, saving you a visit to the GP if your condition is stable. If any issues arise with your medication, your pharmacist can consult with your GP on your behalf.
- Healthy Living Advice: Pharmacies can support your overall health by offering advice on diet, exercise, smoking cessation and blood pressure monitoring. They provide nicotine replacement therapies and regular check-ins to help you quit smoking and stay healthy.
- Contraception Advice: Some pharmacies can also support you with oral contraceptive checks and emergency contraception.