Pharmacy First
Prescriptions are no longer issued for the following: coughs, colds, sore throats, mild pain, nasal congestion, mild hay fever, head lice, conjunctivitis, indigestion/heartburn, infant colic & teething, mild dry skin conditions, minor burns.
Patients should visit their pharmacy first for minor ailments as many over the counter drugs are no longer available on prescription.
Where should I go when I have a common health condition?
If you or your family become unwell with a common health condition you may not always need to see a doctor or get a prescription. You have different choices available.
Your first choice should always be your local pharmacy for help and advice
Your pharmacist can advise you on how long your symptoms should last and may recommend medicines that you can purchase to relieve your symptoms
Your local pharmacy team are qualified health professionals with the knowledge and skills to help you manage your minor health concerns.
There are many benefits of visiting a pharmacy first. You don't need an appointment and they are often opening in the evenings and weekends.
Over the counter medicines explained
Did you know that there is new national NHS guidance on treating your common health conditions with purchased over the counter medicines?
These are some of the common health conditions which can be successfully treated with over the counter medicines:
- Sore throats, colds, coughs and nasal congestion
- Mild hay fever
- Head lice
- Conjunctivitis and dry eyes
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Infant colic and teething
- Mild dry skin conditions
- Minor pain and mild fever
- Minor burns and scalds
You may no longer be able to get a prescription for these medicines.
You'll be asked to visit the pharmacy instead for advice and to purchase over the counter medicine.
These changes do not apply to treatments used for long term conditions or more serious conditions.
Feeling under the weather?
These are some of the common health conditions that your pharmacy can help you with this winter.
- Coughs and colds
- Sore throats
- Minor pain and mild fever
- Nasal congestion
Because these conditions can be treated successfully with medicines available at your pharmacy, you may no longer get a prescription for these medicines.
Remember antibiotics will not work on a cough or cold
You'll be asked to visit the pharmacy instead for advice and to purchase over the counter medicine.
Please help our NHS to use resources sensibly and always choose self care and pharmacy first for the treatment of common health conditions.
Published: Feb 17, 2023
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