Prescription charges

The NHS prescription charge is a flat-rate amount which successive Governments have thought it reasonable to charge for those who can afford to pay for their medicines.  Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.

NHS Prescription costs as of April 1 2016

  • The current prescription charge is £8.40.
  • From 1 April 2016 a three monthly PPC is £29.10. This saves you money if you need four or more items in three months.
  • A 12 month certificate is £104.00 and saves money if 15 or more items are needed in 12 months.

PPCs are available by 10 monthly direct debit instalment payments. The prescription prepayment certificates allow anyone to obtain all the prescriptions they need for £2 per week. 

There is further information about prescription exemptions, fees and PPCs available on the NHS website.