Run out of your prescription medicine? How to get an emergency supply
If you've run out of a medicine you take regularly and can't get a prescription in time, a pharmacist may be able to give you an emergency supply. Here's how it works.
1. Contact NHS 111 (England, Scotland and Wales)
Out of hours, the quickest route is often NHS 111 (or NHS 24 on 111 in Scotland). They can refer you to a local pharmacy that will supply your medicine on the NHS, usually without you having to pay more than the normal prescription charge (free in Scotland and Wales).
2. Ask a pharmacist directly
A pharmacist can supply a prescription-only medicine without a prescription in an emergency if:
- you've been prescribed that medicine before by a UK prescriber,
- the pharmacist is satisfied there's an immediate need and it isn't practical to get a prescription, and
- the medicine is one that can legally be supplied this way. Most controlled drugs, such as strong painkillers, can't be.
The pharmacist will usually supply enough for a few days, and at most 30 days for most medicines. If you go to a pharmacy directly rather than being referred by NHS 111, they may charge for a private emergency supply.
What to bring
- Your repeat prescription slip, the medicine packaging or a photo of your NHS App prescription list
- Photo ID if you have it
- Your GP surgery's name
Avoid running out next time
Order repeat prescriptions at least a week before you run out, especially before bank holidays. In England you can order repeats through the NHS App and nominate a pharmacy to receive them electronically.
If you've missed doses of a critical medicine such as insulin or epilepsy medication and feel unwell, call 111 now — or 999 in an emergency.