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Medicine waste

Unused medicines cost the NHS around £300 million* a year. We need your help to reduce this.

It’s important to only order what you need to:

The good news is that there’s more we can do together to cut down on the waste of medicines, and everyone can help.

Only order what you need

• Before you order more medicines, check what you already have at home. If you have enough, only ask for the medicines you need this time. You can always order more later if you need them.
• If you have any questions about your order for medicines, talk to your pharmacy team.

Open your prescription bag

• Before you leave the pharmacy, check your bag of medication to make sure you have only what you need and nothing extra. If you notice something you don’t need, you can return it straight away, and the medicines can be used again.

Your medicines and hospitals

• Use the NHS App to view your regular medicines or keep a list of them in your wallet or purse. If you’re going into hospital, take all your medicines with you.
• This helps the hospital staff know what medicines you’re already taking and stops them from giving you the same medicine again.
• When going home, double check the medicines you’ve been given to make sure you have what you need. Ask if there are any changes.

Reduce waste with a conversation

• Tell your GP team if you’ve stopped taking any of your medicines or if they’re no longer right for you. If you’re unsure, please contact your practice
• This is okay and helps your healthcare team give you better care.
• Medicines that are not used or out of date can be returned to your pharmacy to be disposed of safely.

*Source: Evaluation of the Scale, Causes and Costs of Waste Medicines