Help Reduce Medication Waste and Support the NHS
Pharmacists and GPs across Cheshire and Merseyside are asking people to only order the medicines they actually need from their repeat prescriptions.
Unused medicines cost the NHS around £300 million every year, and a significant amount of this waste happens locally. Many medicines are ordered but never used and have to be safely destroyed.
To help tackle this, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, along with regional NHS partners, have launched a campaign encouraging people to check what they already have at home before ordering more.
Susanne Lynch MBE, Chief Pharmacist for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said:
“It’s really important to check what medicines you already have before placing your repeat prescription order.
We know a large amount of medication goes unused and is returned to pharmacies for disposal. By ordering only what you need, you can help reduce waste and make sure medicines are available for those who need them most.”
Ordering unnecessary medication can also contribute to pharmacy shortages, so this small step can make a big difference.
Helen Murphy, Chief Officer of Halton St Helens and Knowsley Local Pharmaceutical Committee, shared these tips:
- Only order medicines you need – you don’t have to request everything on your repeat list every time
- Keep all your medicines in one place so you can easily see what you have
- Use one pack at a time to help you keep track
- Check your medicines about a week before your prescription is due, especially around bank holidays
She added:
“Managing medicines can be challenging, particularly if you’re supporting someone else, but keeping things organised helps make it safer.”
If you’re unsure or need support, speak to your pharmacy team. Any unused or expired medicines, including inhalers, should always be returned to your pharmacy for safe disposal.
