Common health conditions? Treatments are available without a prescription
Did you know you can get quick relief for many minor health conditions with medicines from your local pharmacy or supermarket? No prescription or GP visit needed.
Doctors and Pharmacists don’t usually prescribe treatments that you can buy yourself. Your local pharmacy will be able to provide advice and make sure you get the right care. If you’re unsure or have any questions, just ask them.
What can be treated?
Pharmcists can help you with:
- Aches and sprains
- Period pain
- Back pain
- Occasional constipation
- Piles (haemorrhoids)
- Diarrhoea
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Mild dry skin or sunburn
- Mild acne
- Hay fever and mild allergies
- Fungal infections (such as ringworm or athlete’s foot)
- Dry or sore eyes
- Conjunctivitis
- Dandruff and cradle cap
- The supply of vitamins and mineral supplements
What else do I need to know?
Many mild conditions can be treated with medicines from a pharmacy. A pharmacist can check your symptoms and suggest safe treatment.
See a GP if your symptoms are severe, getting worse, or not improving after self-care. A pharmacist will also tell you if you need to see a GP.
Pharmacists are trained experts. They can help you choose safe medicines and check they are OK with any other medicines you take.
Help with Paying for Medication
People who qualify for free prescriptions can also get certain medicines (which are usually sold at pharmacies) free of charge through the Think Pharmacy First scheme. This includes people who:
- Are aged under 16 or over 60 years
- Have a medical exemption certificate
- Have a maternity exemption certificate
- Receive income support
Pregnant women and children may qualify for free vitamins under the Healthy Start scheme.
Citizens Advice can give information about help with health costs. If you are worried about cost, speak to your pharmacist. They can guide you.