A practical guide to understanding and managing your prescriptions

Navigating the world of pharmacies and prescriptions can sometimes feel complicated, but it does not have to be. Whether you are collecting a prescription for the first time, managing several medicines, or simply want to understand how your local pharmacy can help, this guide explains what you need to know in plain language.

What a prescription covers

When you receive a prescription, it is important to understand exactly what it includes and what it does not.

Prescriptions usually cover

Medications

This includes tablets, capsules, liquids, creams, ointments, inhalers, eye drops and other prescribed medicines.

Medical devices

Some prescriptions include items needed to manage your health, such as dressings, insulin pens, blood glucose testing strips, inhaler spacers or stoma appliances.

Prescriptions do not always cover

• Over the counter items such as pain relief, cough syrups, vitamins or dietary supplements, unless your doctor has specifically prescribed them.
• Private treatments or cosmetic procedures.
• If you are unsure whether something is included in your prescription, ask your pharmacist. They can explain what is covered and whether a generic alternative or substitute has been supplied.

Checking your medication before you leave

Making a quick check before leaving the pharmacy can help prevent problems later.

Read the label carefully

• Check the name of the medicine, the dose, how often you need to take it and any special instructions, such as “take with food”.
• Make sure the quantity matches what was prescribed.

Make sure you understand

• If anything is unclear, ask your pharmacist to explain it. This includes possible side effects, particularly if it is a new medicine. You will also find information inside the box in the patient information leaflet.
• If it is a new medicine, you may be offered the New Medicine Service. This is a free National Health Service service where your pharmacist provides extra support and may arrange a follow up conversation to check how you are getting on.
• If your medicine looks different from previous prescriptions, ask whether it is a generic equivalent or a change in brand.

Keep a personal medication record

• Maintain an up to date list of all your current medicines, including over the counter products, herbal remedies and vitamins.
• Bring this list to medical appointments or hospital visits so healthcare staff have accurate information.

Electronic prescriptions and the national digital system

Many general practitioner surgeries now send prescriptions electronically.

How it works

Electronic prescriptions are stored on a secure national digital system that pharmacies can access directly. This means your prescription can be sent straight to your chosen pharmacy.

Benefits

• Reduces paperwork and the risk of errors.
• Makes repeat prescriptions easier to manage.
• Ensures your doctor and pharmacist have up to date information about your recent prescriptions.

If you prefer, you can still request a printed copy from your general practitioner surgery.

Electronic prescriptions are especially useful for repeat medicines and can be sent directly to your nominated pharmacy for collection or delivery.

Choosing or changing your pharmacy

A nominated pharmacy is the pharmacy you choose to receive your prescriptions from. Having one can make the process smoother and more reliable.

How to check or change your nominated pharmacy

• You can do this through the National Health Service app under the pharmacies section.
• You can also ask your general practitioner surgery or community pharmacy to update your details.

Why this helps

• All your prescriptions are sent to one place, reducing the risk of lost or delayed items.
• Your pharmacy can keep a complete record of your medicines, which helps with advice, medication reviews and repeat requests.

Requesting repeat prescriptions

• Planning ahead helps prevent you from running out of essential medicines.
• Request your repeat prescription around 14 days before your current supply runs out.
  You can do this through your general practitioner surgery online service, by handing in a repeat slip at your pharmacy, or by contacting your surgery by phone.
• Keep track of how much medicine you have left and when your doses are due.
  Some pharmacies offer reminder services, so ask your local pharmacy if this is available.
• If you have a long term condition, ask your doctor or pharmacy team whether you can request multiple repeat prescriptions at once.

Safe disposal of medicines

• Keeping unused or expired medicines at home can be unsafe, particularly if children or pets are present.
• Do not throw medicines in the bin or flush them down the toilet. This can harm the environment and create risks.
• Return unwanted or expired medicines to a pharmacy that offers a safe disposal service. Check with the pharmacy before taking them in.
• If possible, keep medicines in their original packaging so the pharmacy team can identify them easily.
• If you are unsure, ask your pharmacy team for advice on the safest way to dispose of medicines.

Quick tips for prescription safety

• Always store medicines according to the instructions.
• Ask for advice if you are unsure about the dose or timing.
• Keep an up to date list of all medicines you take.
• Check the label every time, even for repeat prescriptions.
• Speak to your pharmacy team if you notice side effects or if your medicine looks different.

Understanding your prescription and knowing what support is available can help you feel more confident and in control of your healthcare. Your local pharmacy team is there to provide advice, answer questions and support you in using your medicines safely and effectively. If you are ever unsure, it is always better to ask.