Are your medicines stacking up? NHS urges public to 'only order what you need'

The NHS is urging people to only order the medicines they need as part of a region-wide campaign to tackle medicines waste.

Each year, about £20 million worth of medicines are wasted across the North East and North Cumbria, putting additional pressure on healthcare budgets.

To help address this issue, the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) is working closely with community pharmacies and general practices to raise awareness and encourage patients to have their medication reviewed.  

Patients are being encouraged to check their medicines supplies before placing an order to ensure they only 'order what they need'.

 

Professor Ewan Maule

Professor Ewan Maule, ICB clinical director of medicines, highlighted the importance of using medicine responsibly.

"We are asking everyone to take simple steps to check their cupboards and see what medicines they need before ordering their prescriptions," he said.

"We want people to have the right medicine and the right care while also reducing unnecessary waste."

How you can help

  1. Only order what you need - before getting more, check what medicine you already have.
  2. Return any extras – when picking up your medicine at the pharmacy, only take what you need. If you return something before leaving, it can be used again.
  3. Stick to your routine – order your medicine when you're running low, but not too soon.

By doing this, you will:

  • Get the right medicines and care
  • Help reduce waste
  • Save NHS resources

“Only ordering the medicines you need also helps to keep people safe,” added Professor Maule.

“Having too much medicine at home can be confusing, especially if your prescription changes.

"If you already have enough, there’s no need to order more - you can always ask for it later when you do need it and if you have any concerns about your medicines, you can always speak to your pharmacist or GP for advice.

"By making small changes, we can all make a big difference."

To find out more information visit our website Are your medicines stacking up? - Are your medicines working for you?