In the lead-up to the bank holiday weekend, pharmacy processing times may take a little longer than usual because of the volume of prescriptions. You should not leave it too late to order or collect repeat prescriptions.
If you order your repeat medication directly via your GP Practice, please be patient. The easiest and quickest way to order your repeat medicine is online or via the NHS App – you can do this from the comfort of your own home, without having to leave the house.
Before you order repeat prescriptions, check what medicines you already have and only order what you need. Excess supplies of medicines at home can be dangerous, but it is also wasteful. Once dispensed, medicines cannot be re-used and have to be destroyed.
Have a medicine cabinet at home stocked with some simple over-the-counter remedies like paracetamol, ibuprofen and anti-diarrhoea tablets. This means you can treat any common illnesses or ailments yourself, without needing to see a GP.
Five things for your medicine cabinet
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Pain relief – paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin to help relive minor aches and pains, as well as symptoms of minor illnesses.
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Oral rehydration salts – a high temperature, diarrhoea and being sick can cause you to become dehydrated by losing water and essential minerals. Oral rehydration salts help restore your body’s natural balance of fluid and minerals.
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Anti-diarrhoea tablets – diarrhoea can be caused by food poisoning or a stomach virus and can happen without warning. Anti-diarrhoea remedies may not deal with underlying cause but can help control the symptoms.
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Indigestion treatment – antacids can reduce stomach acidity and bring relief to stomach ache or heartburn.
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A full first aid kit – this should include bandages, plasters, a thermometer, antiseptic, eyewash solution, sterile dressings, medical tape and tweezers.