Londoners are urged to check what medicines they have at home first, before reordering – a simple habit set to save the capital’s NHS services money and reduce the risk of medicine shortages.  

Launched this month, the “Only order what you need” campaign is a London-wide effort to reduce medicine waste.  

NHS London understands that laxatives and painkillers are the medicines most commonly returned to community pharmacies for disposal in London, often because patients feel they no longer need them, experience side effects, or only require them occasionally but receive them as part of routine repeat orders. 

Jon Hayhurst, Chief Pharmacist for the NHS in London, said: “Many people feel they must order every medicine on their repeat prescription, even when they may have plenty left at home.   

“Only ordering what you need is safer for you, as medicines can often go out of date, and it helps prevent medicine shortages, making medicines available for everyone who needs them.  

“We’re asking patients to check what medicines they already have before reordering – medicines you don’t order can always be included next time.”  

Londoners have the power to reduce medicine wastage by making simple changes:  

• Checking what medicines they already have before reordering  

• Booking a GP medication review if they no longer use any medicines on their repeat prescription   

• Checking their prescription bag before leaving the pharmacy, and returning any medicines they do not need.  

Lelly Oboh, Overprescribing Lead for South East London ICB, said: “Ordering only the medicines you need is an easy way to look after your health. It also helps to make sure medicines are there for others who rely on them.   

“If you have medicines on your repeat prescription that you no longer use, your GP practice can review them with you. This helps make sure your prescription is safe and right for your needs.”  

You can now order your repeat prescription using the NHS App. It’s easy to use and available 24/7. Simply download the NHS App here: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/  

For more information on how to only order what you need, visit the website, speak to your GP or visit your local pharmacy.