NHS Prescription Charge in England – £9.90 per Chargeable Item

The NHS prescription charge in England is £9.90 for each chargeable prescribed item, not for an entire prescription. This page explains an NHS dispensing charge; it is not a medicine product, private prescription fee or over-the-counter product price.

When the charge applies

The pharmacy team checks your NHS prescription, the number of chargeable items and any valid exemption or Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC). Some appliances may attract more than one charge. Do not pay this charge if the team confirms you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions.

Exemptions and help with costs

Some patients and prescribed items are exempt. A PPC may reduce the cost of regular NHS prescriptions, depending on eligibility and usage. Check current eligibility and certificate details with NHSBSA; private prescriptions and ordinary shop purchases are not covered by an NHS PPC.

Before payment

Ask the pharmacy to confirm the correct charge and how to pay for your prescription. Buying a charge does not select a medicine, replace a valid prescription or confirm that dispensing has been approved. If claiming a refund later, ask for an NHS receipt form FP57 when paying; it cannot be issued retrospectively.

Frequently asked questions

Is £9.90 charged per prescription?

No. In England it is £9.90 for each chargeable prescribed item. A prescription containing several chargeable items has several charges.

Is this the NHS charge throughout the UK?

No. This page concerns NHS prescriptions in England. Other UK nations have different arrangements.

Does this cover a private prescription?

No. Private prescription medicine prices and dispensing fees are separate from the NHS prescription charge.

Official information

NHS prescription charges · NHSBSA: help with prescription costs

Official charge checked on 5 October 2026. Eligibility and the number of charges must be confirmed by the pharmacy team.