Private Prescription UK
A private prescription in the UK is a prescription from a private doctor (not NHS) that you pay for at the pharmacy. You can get a private prescription same-day via online GP consultation from £49. The prescription is sent electronically to your chosen pharmacy.
How to Get a Private Prescription
Step 1: Book Consultation
Step 2: Discuss with Doctor
Tell the GP what medication you need and why. They'll assess whether it's appropriate.
Step 3: Prescription Issued
If suitable, prescription sent electronically to your chosen pharmacy.
Step 4: Collect Medication
Pay for medication at pharmacy and collect.
Private Prescription vs NHS Prescription
Private prescription:
Consultation fee: From £49
Medication cost: Full price (varies by drug)
Speed: Same-day
Availability: Any medication (that doctor considers appropriate)
NHS prescription:
Consultation: Free
Medication: £9.90 per item (or free if exempt)
Speed: Wait for GP appointment
Availability: NHS formulary restrictions may apply
What Can Be Prescribed Privately?
Commonly prescribed:
Antibiotics
Contraception
Asthma inhalers
Blood pressure medication
Cholesterol medication
Antidepressants
Acid reflux medication
Antihistamines
Erectile dysfunction medication
Weight loss medication
Migraine medication
Skin treatments
Cannot be prescribed via online consultation:
Controlled drugs (strong opioids, benzodiazepines)
Medications requiring physical examination
Some specialist-initiated medications
Private Prescription Cost
Consultation: From £49
Medication cost examples:
Antibiotics: £5-30
Contraceptive pill: £10-40 (3 months)
Asthma inhaler: £10-50
Omeprazole: £5-15
Sertraline: £5-20
Medication prices vary by pharmacy. Shop around.
Are Private Prescriptions Valid?
Yes. Private prescriptions from GMC-registered doctors are legally valid at any UK pharmacy. They must include:
Patient name and address
Drug name, dose, quantity
Doctor's signature
Doctor's GMC number
Prescriber's address
Book Private Prescription Consultation
Need a prescription today? Don't wait for NHS appointment.
Same-day prescriptions. From £49.
The Online GP. Private prescriptions from GMC-registered doctors.