Where to get medicines, creams, drops and vitamins that are no longer routinely prescribed by your GP

NHS England guidance, which came out in 2018, tells us that some medicines and vitamins should no longer be routinely prescribed by GPs in the NHS. This is because many are available to buy cheaply in pharmacies and supermarkets but cost the NHS billions of pounds every year when given on prescription. 

Because of this, some medicines, creams, drops and vitamins will no longer be routinely prescribed by your GP. This will help the local NHS spend money on services and treatments that are needed most. If you were previously prescribed medicines or vitamins that can be bought over the counter (meaning items that you can buy without a prescription), these can be bought easily and quickly at your local pharmacy, or as part of your weekly supermarket shop. 

It’s important to remember that a pharmacy or supermarket’s own brand medicines and vitamins are just as effective as named brands, and often cost a fraction of the price. They also usually have the same ingredients as the more expensive options. 

Having a well-stocked medicine cabinet is an easy way to help you stay well, or get better sooner. 

There are plenty of community pharmacies across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, and you can find your nearest on the NHS website. Many community pharmacies have longer opening hours, staying open later in the evenings and at weekends. If you think you need vitamins, medicine, creams for dry skin or drops/ointment for dry eyes, you can ask the pharmacist for advice on what to buy. 

If you cannot get to a local pharmacy, it’s really easy to pick these up while doing your weekly food shop, whether that’s shopping online or visiting a supermarket. You can add medicines and vitamins to your shopping trolley and ensure that you are ready for any minor illness or allergy. If you cannot get out to do your shopping, ask your friends, family members or carer to pick some of these items up for you when they get your other shopping.  

You can also get important vitamins through eating healthy foods, so while you’re there, stock up on fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and bananas for less than £1. This is a simple way to help give you and your family a balanced and varied diet.  

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