Chemists': a buyer's guide to prescriptions

For many of us our local chemist's is the first port of call if we feel unwell. Chemists and pharmacists can give advice and suggest treatment for minor illnesses as well as dispense medicines and prescriptions. Here's what you need to know if you've been given a prescription...

Chemists

Pharmacies

Check if the drug or medicine is only available on prescription

  • Chemists can sell a wide range of medicines, some under certain restrictions. Some medicines are available over the counter, some only if the chemist or pharmacist is present, while others are only available on a doctor's prescription. Check with the chemist whether your medication is also available off prescription—if so, it is often cheaper to buy it that way.
Follow the instructions

  • The chemist will label your prescription with instructions of what dose to take and how often. Make sure you understand exactly what the label says before you leave the chemist's.
Use the chemist's expertise

  • Chemists are experts who are happy to answer any questions you have about your medicines and prescriptions. You might want to ask about side effects, for instance, or ask about the chances of your prescription medication interacting with any other medicines or remedies that you are taking.
Am I entitled to free prescriptions?

  • In England you do not to pay NHS prescription charges if you are under 16 (19 if in full-time education), are over 60 or receive certain benefits including Jobseeker's Allowance and Income Support.
  • You can apply for exemption from paying if you are pregnant or have had a child in the last year.
  • You may also be able to apply for exemption if you suffer from certain medical conditions that require regular medication.
  • For full details of who is entitled to free prescriptions, you can download the leaflet HC11 Help With Health Costs from the Department of Health.
What if I have to pay for my prescription?

  • It depends where you live. If you are not exempt from charges, you will have to pay per item if you live in England. Wales has abolished prescription charges altogether, while Scotland plans to do so by 2011 (and has already done so for those with chronic conditions such as asthma).
What if I need regular prescriptions?

  • If you do not qualify from exemption but require regular medication you may be able to cut the cost by buying a season ticket.
  • If you are on regular medication, most chemists will also pick up your prescription from your GP and deliver to your door. Some online chemists also offer this service.
What if I am at the hospital?

  • If you are prescribed a drug by a hospital, there should be an in-house chemist who will dispense it for you.
What about in an emergency?

  • You can find your nearest chemist's, including opening hours, through the NHS Direct website. Your local chemist's should also have a notice on the door giving details of out-of-hours cover in your area.

All guides on Yell.com are provided for general guidance only, do not constitute legal or professional advice and are not intended to be exhaustive.


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