Some medicines, that are available to buy over the counter (OTC) from pharmacies and supermarkets, are no longer prescribed by GP practices. GP practices will advise patients to buy these medicines OTC.
The medicines affected are those used to treat minor, short-term health conditions which:
- you can easily treat yourself (self-care) or
- should get better on their own (self-limiting)
Make sure your medicine cabinet is well stocked for the cold and flu season this winter and buy some over the counter medicines with the rest of your shopping.
Why do GP practices no longer prescribe these items?
It costs the NHS much more to prescribe these medicines on a prescription than if they are bought OTC. This is because the NHS has to pay extra fees for the medical consultation(s) and for the pharmacy to supply them. This is money that could be used to support more serious and/or long-term health.