What is repeat dispensing?

Repeat dispensing is the process by which a batch of prescriptions are sent to your chosen pharmacy by the GP Practice to be dispensed at appropriate intervals. This means that you wouldn't have to contact the GP Practice to request medication between medication reviews. 

Typically, following an annual medication review, the community pharmacy would receive at batch of prescriptions to be dispensed at appropriate intervals until the next review.

The practice usually issues medication at 56 or 28 day intervals.

What medication is appropriate for repeat dispensing?

You need to be stable on the current medication, and a change must be unlikely.

The medication must be one that is taken regularly so we know how long it should last.

Unfortunately not all medication is suitable for repeat dispensing. 

Examples of Medication not suitable are:

  • Medication which is intended for a short course only.
  • High risk drugs which need frequent monitoring.
  • Controlled drugs (a substance that is subject to strict government regulation due to its potential for misuse, abuse, and addiction, even if it has a legitimate medical use.) 
  • Medication which is "use when required".
  • Medication for an unstable condition, where drug choice or dose may change.
  • Newly prescribed medication.
  • Regular medication where daily use may vary, such as creams, ointments and eye products.

Other Patient/clinician considerations which may make repeat dispensing less suitable;

  • Many medications are given in multiples of 28 days supply, but some can only be dispensed in original containers which may lead to medication running out at different times. This could result in multiple trips to collect medication. A typical example of this would be inhalers.
  • For repeat dispensing to work well you have to use the same pharmacy each time, so if you have extended holiday periods where you cannot access your pharmacy, repeat dispensing is unlikely to be suitable. 

Please note, if necessary, you can select the medications you require by contacting your pharmacy at each dispensing interval to reduce waste if some medication is not needed.

If you think you might be suitable for repeat dispensing please contact reception to discuss further.