Buying medicine in the UK can be straightforward if you know what to check. Whether you’re shopping NHS, private, or online, the same rules help you avoid fake drugs and slow service. This page covers how to verify pharmacies, legal must-haves, and quick tips to save money without risking your health.
Start with the basics: a legitimate UK pharmacy should be on the GPhC (General Pharmaceutical Council) register and show that registration on their site. Look for a clear business address, a real phone number, and a pharmacist you can contact. The MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) publishes alerts about recalls and fakes — check it if a product looks suspicious. If a site won’t require a prescription for a medicine that’s labelled "POM" (prescription only medicine), that’s a red flag.
Other quick checks: the site should use HTTPS for secure payments, show clear refund and delivery terms, and display batch numbers or manufacturer details on the packaging when you receive medication. If customer reviews are all overly positive or disappear, take that as a warning sign.
If you use an online pharmacy, keep your prescription paperwork and note batch numbers when meds arrive. For regular meds, ask your GP or pharmacist about generic versions — they are usually cheaper and just as effective. In England there is a prescription charge for most adults; Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different rules, so check local NHS guidance to know what you’ll pay.
Be careful when ordering from overseas sites. Some sell legitimate products but many do not follow UK safety standards. If you import medication, you may face customs delays and the product might not be tested to UK standards. When in doubt, choose a UK-registered pharmacy or ask your GP for a trusted supplier.
Storage matters. Follow label advice: many drugs need cool, dry places away from light. Don’t use medication past the expiry date. If you get the wrong product or damaged packaging, contact the pharmacy immediately and report serious issues to MHRA.
Thinking about alternatives? Several posts tagged under "UK medicines" on this site cover options like statin alternatives, steroid-sparing therapies, and safer OTC painkillers. Use those guides as starting points, but always discuss changes with your prescriber.
Final quick checklist before you buy: verify GPhC registration, require a real prescription for POMs, check MHRA alerts, use secure payment, and keep records. That keeps you safer and helps you get the right medicine faster.
