Repeat Prescriptions
Last Updated: Tuesday, 15 September 2026
If you have access to the internet and are comfortable using it then the easiest and safest way for you to order your repeat medication is via your NHS account.
You can access this on a PC or via the NHS app on a tablet or mobile device.
Your usual medications are listed and you simply have to click the ones you need to order.
It also helps keep the amount of time it takes to rekey information into the system when we receive your request.
Other ways of ordering your medication
- Email your request to BELLEVALE.MEDS@LIVGP.NHS.UK
- Place your paper request in the designated box in our reception area
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription from the pharmacy 3 to 5 working days after you have ordered it. Ask your pharmacy if they operate an SMS notification system to let you know when your medicines are ready to collect.
You will need to choose a pharmacy to collect your prescription from. We call this nominating a pharmacy.
You can change your nominated pharmacy at any time:
- On the app or website where you order repeat prescriptions
- At your GP practice
- At any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions
Questions about your prescription
If you have questions about your medicine, your local pharmacists can answer these. They can also answer questions on medicines you can buy without a prescription.
If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription its best to call us after 10am when the phone lines are likely to be less busy.
Medication reviews
If you have a repeat prescription, we may ask you to come in for a regular review. We will be in touch when you need to come in for a review.
What to do with old medicines
Take it to the pharmacy you got it from or bring it in to the surgery. Do not put it in your household bin or flush it down the toilet.
About pharmacists
As qualified healthcare professionals, they can offer advice on minor illnesses such as:
- Coughs
- Colds
- Sore throats
- Tummy trouble
- Aches and pains
- UTI's
They can also advise on medicine that you can buy without a prescription.
Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.
Most pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without being overheard.
Period Delay Medication (Norethisterone)
NHSE (National Health Service England) has issued new guidance which means:
- NHS GPs are no longer advised to routinely prescribe norethisterone or similar medication to delay periods for holidays, travel, or other non-medical reasons.
- Patients wishing to use period delay tablets for holidays, weddings, or other events will now need to seek private care.
What Has Changed?
- Previously: Some GPs could prescribe period delay tablets at their discretion, depending on your health.
- Now: GPs are no longer able to prescribe these medications on the NHS for non-medical reasons.
Where to Access Period Delay Medication Now
• Community Pharmacies: Some local pharmacies now offer pharmacist consultations and can prescribe norethisterone (Find a pharmacy – NHS).
• Private Clinics: Many provide same-day consultations and prescriptions.
• Online Doctor Services: Providers such as Superdrug Online Doctor and Pharmacy2U can supply norethisterone following an online consultation.
Important Medical Considerations
- Not suitable for everyone: Norethisterone is not appropriate for patients with a history of blood clots, liver disease, or certain other health conditions.
- Typical use: As advised by your prescriber but typically taken as one tablet three times a day, starting three days before your period is due.
- Risks: Period delay tablets can increase the risk of blood clots. If travelling, especially on long flights, it is important to move around regularly and stay hydrated.
Summary
- Our GPs will no longer prescribe norethisterone for period delay related to holidays or other non-medical reasons.
- To access period delay medication, you will now need to seek private care.
- Your safety remains our top priority, so always ensure you are medically suitable before taking norethisterone or similar medication.
If you have any questions about your individual health circumstances, please discuss them with a healthcare professional