How to Order a Repeat Prescription

If you take medicine regularly, you will usually have a repeat prescription. This means you can request more medicine when you need it, without booking a GP appointment each time. This guide explains how to order a repeat prescription on the NHS in England, how long it takes, how to choose your pharmacy, and what to do if you are running low. There is also a short section for Manchester residents on managing repeats with a local pharmacy.

What is a repeat prescription?

A repeat prescription is for medicines that you need to take regularly (for a long time), such as a medicine for a long-term condition. The GP will first prescribe the medicine and register it as a repeat prescription, so that you can reorder it when you need it. Your GP will occasionally review to ensure that the medicine is appropriate for you. This check is called a medication check (more on this below).

Ways to order a repeat prescription on the NHS

If there are multiple ways to order a repeat prescription, it is good to know them all. It depends on your GP surgery and what’s easiest for you.

1. NHS order prescription online: the NHS App or NHS website 

This is the route the NHS encourages as the easiest. You can view repeat medicines and doses in your NHS account and select what you need. You will need to set up an NHS login and have your GP surgery connected to your account.

2. Your GP surgery’s online service 

Many surgeries have their own online form or system. Visit the surgery’s web page to see what it offers, and sign up if you haven’t already.

3. An online pharmacy or ordering app 

Some pharmacies and apps let you manage repeat prescriptions online in one place. They pass the request on to your GP surgery, which will then determine if the prescription should be given. If something goes wrong, call the service you were connected with or your surgery!

4. Contacting your GP surgery directly

Surgeries should provide an alternative method for those who can’t place orders online. This is typically on a paper form at reception or by post. Some practices do not take repeat calls by phone to reduce the risk of mistakes, so check with your GP on how they want it done.

How to order a repeat prescription online: step by step

• Take stock of the medicine you’ve used. Don’t rush orders, otherwise you may end up with a delivery too late. Allow extra time around bank holidays and weekends.
• Sign in to the NHS App, the NHS website, or your surgery’s website online.
• Only pick up the medicines that you require. Avoid ordering items you still have plenty of.
• Please see your nominated pharmacy. This is where the prescription will be sent to.
• Please make your request and record the date.
• Pick up your medicine or arrange for it to be sent when the pharmacist tells you.

How long does a repeat prescription take?

The NHS recommends asking for a repeat prescription at least 5 working days before you need it. Turnaround times vary from GP practice to GP practice, so check your GP practice’s turnaround time and allow extra time over weekends and bank holidays. Your pharmacy needs time to prepare your medicine.

Choosing or changing your nominated pharmacy

The pharmacy that you have nominated is the pharmacy you get your electronic prescription to. Usually, it can be changed anytime:

• in the app or website where you order repeat prescriptions
• at your GP surgery
• at a pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions

Choose a pharmacy that’s easy to reach and reliable. Ask if the pharmacy provides delivery services, too, as some do.

What is the Electronic Prescription Service (EPS)?

This is an electronic prescription service where your GP surgery electronically sends your prescription to your chosen pharmacy. No need to pick up a prescription from the surgery and bring it to the pharmacy. Your repeat prescriptions will be sent to your nominated pharmacy once your doctor (GP) has approved them.

Can a pharmacy order my repeat prescription for me?

Some pharmacies can help you make a repeat request, but each GP practice has its own policy, and many now require you to request it via the NHS App/online service. Check with your surgery whether the pharmacy can order them for you, and only order the medicines you need. If you don’t know where to begin, we can tell you what your GP surgery options are.

Repeat dispensing: ask your pharmacy directly.

If you take any long-term medicines that are stable, your GP may be able to arrange for these to be dispensed on a repeat basis. In this situation, your pharmacy can provide your medicine at regular times, without you needing to reorder it. Not everyone is eligible, so check with your GP surgery.

Why your request might be delayed or refused

Your GP practice might ask you to make an appointment for a medication review before approving additional medication. This is a safety check and not a punishment. An order that is not on your repeat list, or a surgery that requires something to be checked with you, may also delay your request. If you are not granted permission, please discuss your situation with your surgery.

Running out of medicine?

Don’t stop your medicine without advice if you have run out and can’t get your repeat prescription in time. Check our guide on emergency prescriptions and NHS 111 emergency supply or talk with your pharmacist.

Prescription charges and free prescriptions

In England, some people have to pay a fee per prescription, but others don’t. If you’re ordering a large quantity of items, a prepayment certificate may also save you money. Rates are subject to change; always check the current rates on the NHS website. Read about NHS prescription charges, exemptions and prepayment certificates for more information. 

Can someone else order or collect my prescription?

Yes, a friend, family member, or carer can often pick up your medicine for you. The pharmacy may request some information to ensure that they are picking up the correct item. If you wish for someone else to order for you, ask your GP surgery what they require, e.g. your agreement.

Repeat prescription Manchester: ordering through Vital Meds.

If you are looking for a repeat prescription pharmacy in Manchester, Vital Meds is a pharmacy at 802 Hyde Road, Manchester, M18 7JD. order repeat prescriptions online in Manchester using our service, track and be reminded about your order, and collect your medicine at the pharmacy or have it delivered anywhere in Manchester. Online ordering is open 24 hours a day. Manchester repeat prescription setup is quick and easy, taking just a few minutes:

• Register on our website.
• Place your order for your repeat medicines.
• Your GP practice checks and approves the request.
• Pick up at the pharmacy or opt for delivery.

If you need help getting your prescription filled at a Manchester pharmacy, or you want to change where your repeat prescriptions are filled, our staff can help with the nomination process. You will need a registered GP, and your GP is still responsible for approving any medicines.

Order your repeat prescription with Vital Meds.

Are repeat online prescriptions safe?

Taking repeats from an online pharmacy may be convenient, but make sure it is reputable. In the UK, online pharmacies must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), and they should display their registration number and the Internet pharmacy logo. You can check whether a pharmacy is registered with the GPhC. If you find a website that sells prescription-only products without a valid prescription, be wary.

Frequently asked questions

You can order a repeat prescription online in Manchester using our service, track your order and get reminders, then collect your medicine at the pharmacy or have it delivered across Manchester.