How does my prescription work?

What is a prescription?

A prescription is an official order from a healthcare professional that allows you to get medicine from a pharmacy. Some GPs can also give you medicine directly.

Prescriptions can be provided in two ways:

• A paper document that you take to a pharmacy.

• Sent directly to a pharmacy on an online system.

Most osteoporosis medicines are taken regularly over several years. If you need ongoing treatment, you may be given a repeat prescription. This means you will need to order and collect your medicine regularly from a pharmacy.

Your doctor or pharmacist can help set this up.

How do I order a repeat prescription?

You can order your repeat prescription in several ways:

• Online - Many GP practices let you order repeat prescriptions through their website. You will need to register for this service. To find your local GP and their website, visit find a GP - NHS

• NHS App - If you have a smartphone, tablet, or computer, you can use the NHS App to order prescriptions. Once registered, you can view your medicines and request repeats directly. To find out how to download the app and register, visit about the NHS app - NHS.

• Telephone or Email - Some GP practices accept prescription requests by phone or email. Check with your local practice to see if this is available. To find your local GP and their contact information, visit find a GP - NHS.

• In-person- You can visit your GP practice in person to request your prescription. You may need to fill out a form if you’re ordering a repeat prescription.

When should I order my medicine?

It’s important to order your repeat prescription before you run out. It may take a few days for your GP surgery or pharmacy to process your request. Try to keep at least one week's supply at all times.

What if I don’t order or forget to collect my prescription?

Prescriptions are valid for six months from when they are created. If you don’t order your medicine during this time, you will need to see your doctor again to get a new one.

How do I collect my medicine?

Once your doctor prescribes your medicine, you can collect it from a pharmacy. In most cases, you can choose which pharmacy, but check with your GP if you’re unsure.

• Electronic prescriptions: If your prescription has been sent electronically, you may need to show ID when collecting it.

• Paper prescriptions: If you have a paper prescription, you must take it to the pharmacy to collect your medicine.

Can I get my prescription delivered?

Some pharmacies offer home delivery. This will depend on where you live and may involve a delivery charge.

• Ask your local pharmacy if they provide a delivery service.

• Look at online pharmacies that offer home delivery. Only use NHS-approved providers. For a list of approved pharmacies, visit internet pharmacies - NHS.

• Some pharmacies offer automatic delivery for repeat prescriptions, so you don’t have to order every time.

Can someone else collect my prescription for me?

Yes, many pharmacies let you choose a person to collect your prescriptions. They may need to provide your:

• name

• address

• date of birth.

If you have a repeat prescription, they can also reorder it by visiting your GP practice or requesting it online or by phone.

Do I need to pay for my prescribed medicine?

Prescription costs depend on where you live:

• In England, prescriptions are free for people aged 60 and over. If you’re under 60, you may need to pay a standard prescription charge.

• In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, all NHS prescriptions are free.

You may qualify for free prescriptions in England depending on your circumstances. Find out if you qualify for free prescriptions or financial help. You can also ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Can I save money on prescriptions?

If you pay for prescriptions regularly, a Prescription Pre-Payment Certificate (PPC) could save you money.

A PPC lets you pay a set fee for all of your prescriptions over:

• 3 months (if you need more than 3 prescriptions)

• 12 months (if you need more than 11 prescriptions)

Example savings:

• 2 prescriptions per month for a year, saves around £123

• 4 prescriptions per month for a year saves around £360

HRT Prescription Pre-Payment Certificate

If you are taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) treatment, there is a specific PPC. For more information about the HRT PPC, visit HRT PPC NHS.

For more information about PPCs, visit NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) | NHSBSA