Pharmacists and GPs across Dorset are once again urging people to ‘Only Order What You Need’.  

Every month, around 50,000 people in Dorset receive repeat prescriptions for multiple medications. It’s estimated that 1.6 million of these items are wasted unnecessarily in the county every year. 

The second year of the campaign encourages Dorset residents to check their medication at home before placing a new order; reducing waste, improving safety and helping to protect NHS resources. 

Peter Cope, Head of Medicines Optimisation at NHS Dorset and a former community pharmacist, said: 

“We want to remind people how important it is to check what medicines they have at home before placing their repeat prescription order. Repeat prescriptions cost the local NHS around £10 million a month, and we know that a significant proportion of these medicines go unused. 

“With the support of our people and communities, we can reduce medicine waste, prevent supply pressures, and ensure the right medication is available for those who need it most. 

“Thank you to the many people who already do this – your small actions make a big difference.” 

People are advised to: 

  • Check their medicines before ordering repeat prescriptions 
  • Only order what they need – even if it’s on their repeat list 
  • Speak to their pharmacy team if they have questions or need support. 

Unused or out-of-date medicines can be returned to any pharmacy for safe disposal. 

To find out more, visit www.nhsdorset.nhs.uk/yourmeds