Common health conditions?

Treatments are available without a prescription

You can get quick relief for many minor health conditions with medicines from your local pharmacy or supermarket, no prescription needed.

Your GP, pharmacists and hospital doctors don’t usually prescribe treatments that you can buy yourself. Your local pharmacy will be able to provide advice and make sure you get the right care. If you’re unsure or have any questions, just ask them.

Find out more about how pharmacists can help.

Find your local pharmacy.

What can be treated?

You can treat common problems like:

●        Aches and sprains

●        Period pain

●        Back pain

●        Occasional constipation

●        Piles (haemorrhoids)

●        Diarrhoea

●        Indigestion and heartburn

●        Mild dry skin or sunburn

●        Mild acne

●        Hay fever and mild allergies

●        Fungal infections (such as ringworm or athlete’s foot)

●        Dry or sore eyes

●        Conjunctivitis

●        Dandruff and cradle cap

●        The supply of vitamins and mineral supplements

Not sure what you can treat? Speak to someone in your local pharmacy, they are trained and are happy to help.

Frequently asked questions

Some common problems can be easily treated with medicines that can be bought safely from a pharmacy or supermarket. Because of this, they are not usually given on prescription. This helps the NHS spend money on the most important services and long-term care.

You’ll need to buy medicines for common or minor conditions that are available over the counter. If you have a long-term, serious condition that requires ongoing treatment, your doctor can still prescribe the medicines you need.

Many mild problems can be treated with medicines from a pharmacy. A pharmacist can discuss your symptoms and suggest the right treatment.

You should contact your doctor if your symptoms are:

  • Severe
  • If symptoms are getting worse and you have already tried self-care

If your pharmacist thinks that you need to see a doctor, they will recommend you go and see a GP.

Pharmacists are highly trained and are experts in medicines. They can help you choose something safe and effective that works with any medicines you already take.

Help may be available.

  • People who qualify for free prescriptions can also get certain medicines (which are usually sold at pharmacies) free of charge through the Think Pharmacy First scheme. This includes people who:
    • Are aged under 16 or over 60 years
    • Have a medical exemption certificate
    • Have a maternity exemption certificate
    • Receive income support
  • Pregnant women and children may qualify for free vitamins under the Healthy Start scheme.
  • Citizens Advice can give information about help with health costs.

If you are worried about cost, speak to your pharmacist. They can guide you.