Prescription cost guides
How much do common NHS drugs actually cost? Who's overpaying? And what can you do about it?
Amlodipine: The UK's Second Most Prescribed Drug
Amlodipine is the second most dispensed drug in England, with 40 million items per year. Its Drug Tariff price is 80p. You pay £9.90.
How Much Does Atorvastatin Actually Cost the NHS?
Atorvastatin 20mg has a Drug Tariff price of 42p but NHS patients pay £9.90. Here's why — and how to pay less.
Can You Get a Private Prescription for Blood Pressure Tablets?
Yes — blood pressure medications like amlodipine, ramipril, and losartan can be prescribed privately for £5.50/month, saving patients up to £4.40 per item.
Private Prescription vs NHS: When Is Private Cheaper?
For cheap generic drugs, a private prescription at £5.50 beats the NHS's £9.90 flat charge. Here's exactly when private is cheaper — and when it isn't.
What Is a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC)?
A PPC lets you pay £114.50/year for unlimited NHS prescriptions. It's great if you take 12+ items per year. But for cheap generics, a private prescription might be cheaper.
Sertraline Cost UK: Why You're Overpaying
Sertraline 50mg costs 68p on the Drug Tariff. NHS patients without an exemption pay £9.90. With 23 million items dispensed annually, it's one of the most prescribed antidepressants in England.
Ramipril: Cost, Uses, and How to Save Money
Ramipril is the fifth most prescribed drug in England with 35 million items annually. Its Drug Tariff price is 60p but NHS patients pay £9.90. Here's how to pay less.
What Is a Pharmacist Independent Prescriber?
A pharmacist independent prescriber (PIP) is a GPhC-registered healthcare professional qualified to diagnose and prescribe any medication within their competence — without a GP.
Lansoprazole and Omeprazole: The UK's Most Prescribed Stomach Drugs
Lansoprazole (37m items/year) and Omeprazole (36m items/year) together account for 73 million NHS prescriptions. Both cost under £1. Both cost patients £9.90.
How to Save Money on Repeat Prescriptions in England
In England, 11% of patients pay the £9.90 flat prescription charge — generating £670m/year. If your drugs are cheap generics, here are your options to pay less.
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