Whether you forgot to order your repeat prescription or you’re away from home, you can usually obtain an emergency supply of your medicine. Do not wait until you have completely run out to take action.
If you normally get your tablets from a specific pharmacy, go there first. Because they have a record of your previous prescriptions, they are the most likely to help.
How it works: A pharmacist can provide an emergency supply at their discretion if they are satisfied you need the medicine immediately.
What to bring: You must bring photo ID (Driving License or Passport) and, if possible, your old pill bottle or a previous prescription slip.
Note: You may be charged a small fee for this service, even if you usually get free prescriptions.
If your pharmacy is closed or you are in a different city, contact NHS 111.
Method: Visit 111.nhs.uk and use the “Check your symptoms” or “Emergency prescription” tool.
Outcome: They can book an appointment for you at an Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) or direct you to an open pharmacy that is authorised to provide emergency supplies.
If you cannot reach a pharmacist, you can visit a Walk-in Centre, Urgent Care Centre (UCC), or Minor Injuries Unit (MIU).
Hours: Most are open 8 am – 8 pm, 7 days a week.
Requirement: You do not need an appointment, but you will need to prove what medication you are on. Bringing a screenshot of your NHS App or an old prescription is vital.
If it is during normal working hours (Monday–Friday), call your GP immediately.
Urgent Request: Inform the receptionist that you have run out of essential medication. Most surgeries have a system for “urgent same-day prescriptions” that can be sent electronically to your pharmacy within hours.
Please do not go to A&E (Emergency Room). A&E is for life-threatening emergencies only. Hospital doctors in A&E do not have easy access to your GP records and often cannot issue repeat prescriptions for long-term conditions. Using A&E for prescriptions takes resources away from critical patients.
To avoid the “faff” of emergency requests, follow these simple steps:
The 7-Day Rule: Always order your repeat prescription at least 7 days before you run out.
Use the NHS App: You can order repeats directly from your phone without calling the doctor.
Check for Holidays: Pharmacies and GPs often close for 3–4 days during Bank Holidays (like Easter or Christmas). Stock up at least two weeks in advance.
Running out of tablets is a common mistake, but between your local pharmacist and NHS 111, you can get a bridge supply to keep you safe until your GP reopens.
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