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

Book Private GP 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.

Book Consultation

Same-day prescriptions. From £49.

The Online GP. Private prescriptions from GMC-registered doctors.

Previous
Previous

Speak to a Doctor Now UK

Next
Next

How Much Does a Private GP Cost UK