How many months can my repeat prescription be issued for ?
Repeat prescription duration
The Department of Health recommends that repeat prescriptions are usually issued for no more than 28 days at a time.
In some cases, a 56-day supply may be appropriate, for example:
- If you are stable on your medication and your treatment is not complex.
- If prescription charges are a financial concern and your condition is stable.
Longer prescribing intervals may be suitable when:
- The medication is a contraceptive or Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for the treatment of menopause and perimenopause.
- The medication is supplied in a special pack that cannot be split (for example, a 200 dose inhaler supplied as one original pack).
Prescriptions for certain controlled drugs must not exceed 30 days’ supply.
If you are travelling abroad for a short period, we may be able to issue up to three months of your regular medication before you go. This will depend upon which medication you take, what monitoring is required, and will be up to the discretion of your clinician. You may also be asked to submit proof of travel.
