Prescriptions

We are a dispensing practice, so we can give you medications. This does not apply if you live within a mile of a chemist, or outside our dispensing area.

Ordering repeat prescriptions

The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:

These accounts show you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.

You can also:

  • Email the dispensary at clifton.dispensary@nhs.net (please include your name, date of birth, and which medication you are requesting)
  • Put your printed list of medications in the practice’s post box outside, or pass it to a receptionist at the front desk.

We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone.

Do not wait until you have run out of medication to request more. It takes at least two working days for us to check your notes and order your medication.

Collecting your prescription

You can usually collect your prescription from the pharmacy 3 to 5 working days after you have ordered it.

You will need to choose a pharmacy to collect your prescription from. We call this nominating a pharmacy.

You can change your nominated pharmacy at any time:

  • on the app or website where you order repeat prescriptions
  • at your GP practice
  • at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions

Non-urgent advice: Generic Medication

When the patent for a branded medication runs out, other companies can make it under a generic or general name. This is called a generic medication. They are just as safe and effective as the original, but are usually much cheaper. Using generic medications saves the NHS millions of pounds each year. That is money that we can then spend on you.

If you are prescribed medication that looks different to your last supply, this might mean it is generic medication. Generic medications sometimes have a different colour, size, shape or taste than the branded version. This does not change the effect of the medication at all.

If you are worried about the change in name or appearance of your medications, the dispenser or doctor can explain why they are different.

Questions about your prescription

If you have questions about your medicine, your local pharmacists can answer these. They can also answer questions on medicines you can buy without a prescription.

The NHS website has information on how your medicine works, how and when to take it, possible side effects and answers to your common questions.

If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription:

Medication reviews

If you have a repeat prescription, we may ask you to come in for a regular review. We will be in touch when you need to come in for a review.

Prescription charges

Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).

What to do with old medicines

Take it to the pharmacy you got it from or bring it in to the surgery. Do not put it in your household bin or flush it down the toilet.

About pharmacists

As qualified healthcare professionals, pharmacists can offer advice on minor illnesses such as:

  • coughs
  • colds
  • sore throats
  • tummy trouble
  • aches and pains

They can also advise on medicine that you can buy without a prescription.

Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.

Most pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without being overheard.