How much do prescriptions cost?

Most adults in England have to pay prescription charges, although certain prescriptions are always free such as contraceptives.  

NHS charges for items prescribed in England increased as of 1st May 2024.

The prescription charge increased by 25p to £9.90 for each medicine or appliance dispensed. If your doctor prescribes more than one medication then you will need to pay £9.90 for each one. This can be expensive if you have a lot of different medications to take.

You can buy pre-payment certificates which reduce the cost of your prescriptions.  

If you have paid to see a doctor privately, and they have given you a prescription, this will cost you more than an NHS prescription. Your NHS GP will not usually be able to transfer a private prescription to an NHS prescription. For clarity over the cost and administration of a prescription, please speak to your GP.  

Some groups are automatically entitled to free NHS prescriptions whilst others can apply for exemption certificates that make their prescriptions free.  

You can call this NHS helpline to find out more about prescriptions:  
0300 330 1349