There are several ways to get an emergency prescription when you have run out of your repeat prescription:
- Call 111 or visit 111 online
- Walk into a local pharmacy and ask the pharmacist
But what’s the best option for you right now? Read on and find out.
Call 111, or visit 111 Online for an emergency prescription
- If you have run out of your usual medicines, the 111 online system can help you get an urgent prescription
- Get help from 111 by either:
- You can phone 111, or,
- use 111 Online, you don’t have to wait on the phone to speak to 111 or for a callback.
- You also get a choice of booking an appointment at any late-night or extended-hours pharmacies near to you [if there are any]
- Using 111 Online, your emergency prescription will also be free.
Visit a local pharmacy to ask for an emergency prescription
- Visit your local pharmacy – if you already have repeat prescriptions and have run out, you can go to a Pharmacy, and they can look up your past prescriptions online on the NHS Electronic Prescription Service.
- Also take an empty drug packet or prescription with you, or show your prescriptions on the NHS App.
- Supermarket pharmacies tend to open longer than other Pharmacies, or you can go to your local duty pharmacist [community pharmacies take turns to open for longer].
- The pharmacist may agree to issue you a short emergency prescription to cover you until you can get one from your GP – this may be chargeable, even if your prescriptions are usually free
- You can find Pharmacies near you and their opening times on the NHS.UK website. , or via Google Maps
- Here’s a guide on the NHS on how to ask a pharmacist for medicines without a current prescription.UK website
What if the medicines you need are not on repeat prescription?
If you don’t have an existing repeat prescription, you can either:
- Call 111 or visit 111 online and receive a call back to discuss your options
- Prescriptions for some minor illnesses are covered under the ‘Pharmacy First’ scheme and you can walk into a Pharmacy to discuss with the Pharmacist if you can get treatment for the following problems:
- Acute otitis media*
- Impetigo
- Infected insect bites
- Shingles
- Sinusitis
- Sore throat
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Get an Emergency Prescription
Make it easier next time to get your repeat prescriptions – order online
I use the NHS App [and other apps] to order my prescriptions from my GP online. No waiting on the phone, popping down to the surgery and queueing with sick people. Once it’s set up, it’s dead easy and can be done from a computer, and you don’t have to use a smartphone.
How can I obtain an emergency prescription?
If you’ve run out of your prescribed medication, you can request an emergency supply through the NHS 111 online emergency prescription service. This service is available for medicines you are prescribed regularly through a repeat prescription.
Source: https://111.nhs.uk/emergency-prescription
Can I get an emergency prescription from a pharmacy or NHS 111?
Yes, many pharmacies can provide an emergency supply of your medication if you can show evidence of a previous prescription. NHS 111 can also guide you to the appropriate service or arrange a prescription.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions/emergency-prescriptions/
How do I get an emergency prescription refill?
For refills, contact your GP or pharmacy directly. If they’re closed, NHS 111 can offer advice. Pharmacies may provide a short-term supply, if you bring proof of your medication, of around 5 days medications. This should leave you enough time to get repeat medication from your GP.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions/emergency-prescriptions/
Can NHS 111 prescribe medication?
NHS 111 can arrange a prescription through their medical team or direct you to an open pharmacy or out-of-hours GP service.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/
What medications can NHS 111 prescribe?
Depending on your situation, NHS 111 can help arrange medications like antibiotics or pain relief in emergencies. They’ll advise you on the best course of action.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/
Will NHS 111 prescribe antibiotics?
In some instances, NHS 111 may arrange antibiotics if necessary after assessment.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/
How much does an emergency prescription cost?
If you walk into a Pharmacy to ask for emergency medications, the Pharmacist may charge you for them, even if you are exempt from prescription charges. If you are sent by 111, then standard NHS prescription charges and exemptions apply. Private services may have different fees.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions/emergency-prescriptions/
Can emergency dentists prescribe antibiotics?
Yes, dentists can prescribe antibiotics if necessary during an emergency. For guidance, contact your dental practice [their phone message should give the number for the local emergency dental service or NHS 111.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/
Can controlled drugs be issued in an emergency?
Issuing controlled drugs in an emergency is possible but subject to strict regulations. Pharmacies and GPs will assess your situation to determine the best action.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions/emergency-prescriptions/
Can pharmacies provide emergency prescriptions for antibiotics?
Yes, many pharmacies can issue antibiotics in emergencies, especially if you have proof of a previous prescription. It’s advisable to contact the pharmacy ahead of time to confirm.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions/emergency-prescriptions/
How do repeat prescriptions work in emergencies?
Pharmacies may provide a temporary supply while you arrange a new prescription through your GP. Bringing your old packaging or repeat slip can be helpful.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions/emergency-prescriptions/
Can I get a refill at an emergency room?
Emergency rooms focus on acute care and may not provide refills for regular medications. It’s better to contact your GP or pharmacy for refills.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions/emergency-prescriptions/
What should I do if I need a prescription while away from home?
Visit the nearest pharmacy or contact NHS 111 for guidance. Carrying proof of your medication, like a repeat slip or packaging, can facilitate the process.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions/emergency-prescriptions/
Can I get an emergency prescription on weekends or holidays?
Yes, many pharmacies and NHS services operate during weekends and holidays. NHS 111 can help you find the nearest open pharmacy.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/
Are calls to NHS 111 free?
Yes, calls to NHS 111 are free from both landlines and mobiles.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/
What advice can NHS 111 provide?
NHS 111 offers medical advice and can connect you to out-of-hours GP services or pharmacies for emergency prescriptions.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/
Can NHS 111 prescribe pain relief or inhalers?
NHS 111 may arrange prescriptions for pain relief, inhalers, or other urgent needs, depending on your condition.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/
Can NHS 111 prescribe diazepam or other medications?
NHS 111 may prescribe certain emergency medications, but restrictions apply to controlled substances. They will guide you on the appropriate steps.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/
Can pharmacists prescribe emergency medications?
Yes, pharmacists can prescribe emergency medications if you provide proof of a previous prescription. Many pharmacies will provide a temporary supply.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions/emergency-prescriptions/
