Repeat Prescriptions and Medication Reviews

Many medications in primary care are prescribed as repeats, meaning they are intended to be taken regularly over a period of time. However, repeat prescribing does not mean a medication should continue indefinitely without review.

This page explains what repeat prescriptions are, why medication reviews matter, and how GPs decide when a repeat is appropriate, needs adjusting, or should be stopped.

These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help, please book an appointment with one of our GP’s.

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What is a repeat prescription?

A repeat prescription is used for medicines that are taken on an ongoing basis, usually for long-term conditions or symptom control. Once a medication is added to a repeat list, it can be reissued without a full consultation each time.

Repeat prescriptions are intended to support continuity of care, not to bypass review. They are part of an ongoing treatment plan rather than a permanent entitlement.

Why medication reviews are important

Medication reviews are a key part of safe prescribing. Over time, your health, symptoms, and circumstances can change, which may affect whether a medication is still appropriate.

A review allows a GP to check:

whether the medication is still needed
whether it is working as intended
whether side effects have developed
whether monitoring is up to date
whether the dose or treatment plan should change

Regular review helps reduce unnecessary medication and avoid harm.

How often should medications be reviewed?

The frequency of review depends on the type of medication, the condition being treated, and individual risk factors.

Some medicines need frequent review or monitoring, while others can be reviewed less often once stable. Your GP will usually advise when a review is needed and what it will involve.

When a repeat prescription may not be appropriate

There are situations where a GP may decide not to continue a repeat prescription without review. This may be because:

symptoms have changed or worsened
side effects are suspected
monitoring tests are overdue
the medication was intended for short-term use
the risk of harm now outweighs the benefit

In these cases, further assessment is usually needed before prescribing continues.

Bridging prescriptions and short-term supplies

Sometimes a GP may issue a short-term or “bridging” prescription to allow time for review, tests, or specialist input. This is not the same as long-term approval to continue the medication.

Bridging prescriptions are used cautiously and are based on individual clinical judgement.

Repeat prescribing in private GP care

Private GPs follow the same principles of safe repeat prescribing as NHS GPs. A private GP may agree to continue a repeat medication where it is appropriate and safe to do so.

However, a private GP may also recommend review, monitoring, or specialist input before continuing certain medicines. Private prescribing does not remove the need for review or shared care arrangements.

Why some repeat requests are declined

It can feel frustrating if a repeat prescription is declined. This usually reflects concerns about safety rather than reluctance to help.

A GP may decline a repeat if:

review or monitoring is overdue
the medication carries higher risk
the original indication is unclear
circumstances have changed

In these situations, the aim is to reassess and ensure ongoing treatment is safe.

How repeat prescriptions fit into ongoing care

Repeat prescribing works best as part of an ongoing relationship that includes review, discussion, and shared decision-making. Adjusting or stopping medication can be just as important as continuing it.

Understanding this process can help set realistic expectations and support safer long-term care.