A new campaign is encouraging us all to only order the medicines we need to help reduce waste.

Across the NHS, unused medicines cost around £300 million every year – money that could be used to provide other NHS care. 

Many people feel they need to order every medicine listed on their repeat prescription, even if they still have some at home. Before reordering, take a moment to check what you already have. If you still have enough medicine to last, you do not need to request more just yet.

Only ordering what you need: 

• is safer for you, as medicines can go out of date if kept for too long.
• helps prevent medicine shortages, making medicines available for everyone.
• helps reduce waste and is better for the environment. 

If you do have any unused medicines at home, you can return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal. 

Not using some of your medicines? Speak to your GP practice about a medication review; they can help make sure your prescription is right for you. 

Check your prescription bag before you leave the pharmacy in case it contains medicines you don’t need. Returning these medicines means they can be used by another patient.  

Remember, only order what you need to cut waste, prevent shortages, and keep medicines available for everyone.