Pharmacy in Reading

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Pharmacies in the UK

Community pharmacies do far more than dispense prescriptions. Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals — registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) — who can advise on minor illnesses, medicines and healthy living, often without an appointment. Online pharmacies, also GPhC-registered, dispense and deliver medicines by post.

What your pharmacy can help with

  • Prescriptions — dispensing NHS and private prescriptions, plus repeat prescription services.
  • Minor illness advice — coughs, colds, skin conditions and more. Under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme in England, pharmacists can supply treatment for some common conditions without a GP appointment.
  • Vaccinations & services — many offer flu jabs, travel vaccines, blood pressure checks and emergency contraception.

Prescription charges

In England a fixed NHS prescription charge applies per item unless you are exempt (for example children, people over 60, and those with certain conditions or on qualifying benefits). Prescriptions are free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Prepayment certificates can save money if you need several items.

Finding a pharmacy when you need one

Some pharmacies open late or at weekends — useful when a GP surgery is closed. NHS 111 can direct you to an open pharmacy in an urgent situation. This page is information only and not medical advice; ask your pharmacist or another clinician about your specific needs.

Last updated: 2026-07-22

Frequently Asked Questions

Pharmacists can advise on many minor illnesses and medicines. Under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme in England, they can also assess and supply treatment for some common conditions — such as certain infections — without you needing to see a GP first.
In England a fixed charge applies per prescription item unless you are exempt (for example children, people over 60, or those on qualifying benefits or with certain conditions). Prescriptions are free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. A prepayment certificate can save money if you need several items.
Registered online pharmacies are regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), the same body that regulates high-street pharmacies. Look for the GPhC registration and a registered pharmacy logo before ordering medicines online.
Some pharmacies open late, on weekends or even 24 hours. NHS 111 can direct you to an open pharmacy when you need one urgently and your GP surgery is closed.

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