Ordering Prescription Medicines Online in the UK and Europe: A Checklist
More people in the UK and across Europe now order their regular prescription medicines online, often to save money on generic versions. Doing it well comes down to a few checks before, during and after you place an order. This checklist keeps things simple. For a wider look at the topic, see our guide on how to buy generic medicines online.
Before you order
Have a valid prescription. A valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine. Keep a clear photo or scan of it ready to upload.
Know the generic name. Note the active ingredient, for example sildenafil rather than Viagra, or finasteride rather than Propecia. Generic products often carry their own trade names.
Confirm the strength and form. Check the milligrams, whether it is a tablet or capsule, and how many you take each day.
Work out how many you need. Count the days of supply you have left and add a buffer for delivery.
Speak to your GP or chemist if you are switching from a branded product, so your records stay accurate.
While you order
Match the product to your prescription. The strength on the product page should be exactly what was prescribed. If a product is sold at a strength above the licensed dose, treat it as not licensed and only use it if your prescriber has set it.
Read the pack size carefully. Prices may be per strip, per box or per bottle.
Look at the full cost. Include delivery, and compare the cost per tablet rather than per pack.
Use a protected payment method, and check the checkout page shows a padlock in the address bar.
Double-check your delivery address, including the postcode and any flat number.
Delivery to the UK and Europe
Orders are shipped worldwide by EMS or registered mail in discreet packaging. Delivery times to the UK and European countries vary, so order early, especially before bank holidays and the Christmas period. Keep your tracking number and check it every few days. Parcels may occasionally be held for checks in transit, so keep a copy of your prescription handy in case you are asked for it.
When your parcel arrives
Inspect the packaging. Blister packs and seals should be intact.
Check the label against your prescription: active ingredient, strength and quantity.
Read the patient leaflet. If anything is unclear, ask your chemist.
Store it properly. Most tablets should be kept below 25°C in a dry place, out of reach of children. Eye drops and some other products have their own storage instructions.
After you start
Tell your GP which product you are taking, especially if it looks different from what you had before.
Report side effects to your GP or chemist.
Set a reorder reminder for when you have about two weeks' supply left.
Warning signs to watch for
Be wary of any website that:
Skips the prescription step entirely.
Makes miracle claims or promises that a medicine works for everyone.
Offers prices that seem far too low for the strength on offer.
Gives no clear contact details or order information.
When you buy medicines online, a little planning goes a long way. Our how to order page explains each step, from uploading your prescription to tracking your parcel.
Want to go further? You can see Finax 1 (finasteride 1 mg) as an example product page, or browse everything on the RxPillTab home page.
This is general information, not medical advice. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any medicine.