Your GP, Nurse or Pharmacist will not generally give you a prescription for over the counter medicines for a range of minor health conditions.
Instead, over the counter medicines are available to buy in a pharmacy or supermarket in your local community.
The team of health professionals at your local pharmacy can offer help and clinical advice to manage minor health concerns and if your symptoms suggests it’s more serious, they’ll ensure you get the care you need.
Please help the NHS to use resources sensibly
www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/medicines/why-cant-i-get-prescription-over-counter-medicine
Choose pharmacy first and treat yourself better this winter.
No appointment necessary!
If you're not feeling well, visit your pharmacist first. They can treat a range of minor conditions without the need for a doctor's appointment.
Pharmacy First leaflet (PDF, 627KB)
Pharmacy First poster (PDF, 1.70MB)
Participating Pharmacies (PDF, 290KB)