Self Care Medication

569 million reasons

GP practices no longer provide prescriptions for medicines that you can buy at the pharmacy, supermarket or elsewhere.

In 2017 the NHS spent approximately £569million on Over the Counter (OTC) medicines in England. This is money that could be used to support more serious and/or long-term health conditions

What has changed?

Some medicines, that are available to buy OTC from pharmacies and supermarkets, are no longer prescribed by GP practices. GP practices will advise patients to buy these medicines OTC.

The medicines affected are those used to treat minor, short-term health
conditions, which:

• you can easily treat yourself (self-care) or
• should get better on their own (self-limiting)

This change applies to OTC medicines for the conditions listed in here.

Why did we make these changes?

In March 2018, following national public consultation, NHS England published national guidance on reducing the prescribing of OTC medicines for minor, short-term health conditions.

It costs the NHS much more to prescribe these medicines on a prescription than
if they are bought OTC. This is because the NHS has to pay extra fees for the medical consultation(s) and for the pharmacy to supply them.

What if I am exempt from paying prescription charges?

This guidance applies to all patients, including those who are exempt from paying prescription charges.

Where can I buy these OTC medicines?

These can be purchased without the need for a prescription from pharmacies, supermarkets and other retail outlets. How much do OTC medicines cost?

How much do OTC medicines cost?

Just like with other goods, the price of medicines may vary between retailers so it is a good idea to shop around to get the best value.

The average cost of most of these medicines will be around £2 to £3 and some will be even cheaper.

What if I need my medication labelled?

Schools, holiday clubs, carers, etc. may require medicines to be supplied with labels on them. Some pharmacies will label medicines purchased OTC for you. Ask at your pharmacy or speak to your GP practice to find a participating pharmacy.

Care navigation – right care, first time

Your GP practice receptionist may advise you to visit the pharmacy first. If you have already spoken to a pharmacist and tried OTC medicines, please bring these with you to your appointment.

Where can I get further advice?

Community pharmacies play a key role in advising patients on minor conditions that you can treat yourself. They are experts on medicines and can signpost to other services if needed.

Most pharmacies have a quiet area, away from other customers, where you can speak to a pharmacist in private. You don't need an appointment, you can just walk in. Many pharmacies also have extended opening hours, including evenings and weekends.

To locate your nearest community pharmacy visit the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/service-search

+ These items are only available from your pharmacy

+ These items are only available from your pharmacy