A serial prescription is for medicine(s) you need to manage a long-term condition. It looks like a regular prescription but allows your pharmacy to supply your medication for up to 56 weeks, without needing a new paper prescription each time.

Your prescription will stay at your chosen pharmacy, where your medication will be dispensed every 4 to 8 weeks, based on your clinician’s instructions.

If you’re going on holiday or need your medication earlier than usual, just let your pharmacist know — they can help adjust the timing. Each time you collect your medication, the pharmacy team will check what you still need. We’ll also be able to see on your medical record when your prescription is collected.

Please remember:

• Your serial prescription can only be collected from the pharmacy where it was originally handed in.

• When you first hand it in, the pharmacy will register you and confirm you’re happy with your current medicines.

• Some medicines, like controlled drugs, are not included in serial prescriptions — you’ll still need to order those through your GP practice as usual.

Your doctor and the practice team will continue to review your medication and any regular blood tests, just like before. If your condition changes or your medication needs to be adjusted, your doctor can update your prescription and will inform your pharmacist.