Can a pharmacist prescribe antibiotics?
Yes, in some cases. In England, a pharmacist can give you antibiotics through the NHS Pharmacy First service for a short list of common infections, without you seeing a GP first. They only do this when an NHS protocol shows an antibiotic is needed. Many infections get better on their own.
When a pharmacist can give you antibiotics
Pharmacy First covers seven conditions. For most of them, the pharmacist may supply an antibiotic if your symptoms meet the NHS criteria.
| Condition | Who can use it | Can a pharmacist give antibiotics? |
|---|---|---|
| Urinary tract infection (UTI) | Women aged 16 to 64 | Yes, for an uncomplicated bladder infection |
| Sore throat and tonsillitis | Aged 5 and over | Sometimes, if a symptom score suggests a bacterial infection |
| Sinusitis | Aged 12 and over | Sometimes, if symptoms have lasted 10 days or more and are severe |
| Impetigo | Aged 1 and over | Sometimes; a non-antibiotic cream is often tried first |
| Infected insect bite | Aged 1 and over | Yes, if the bite is infected |
| Ear infection | Aged 1 to 17 | Sometimes, after an in-person ear check |
| Shingles | Aged 18 and over | No. Shingles is a virus, so the pharmacist may give an antiviral instead |
The pharmacist asks about your symptoms and health, and may check your NHS record. If an antibiotic isn't right for you, they will tell you why and what to do instead.
Can a pharmacist prescribe antibiotics for a UTI?
Yes, for women aged 16 to 64 with symptoms of an uncomplicated bladder infection. Men, anyone pregnant, and people with repeated infections, a high temperature or back pain are referred to a GP or urgent care. Pharmacy First UTI
Can a pharmacist prescribe antibiotics for a chest infection?
No. Chest infections are not part of Pharmacy First. Most are caused by viruses and clear up in 1 to 3 weeks. Contact your GP or NHS 111 if you are getting worse, coughing up blood, or short of breath.
Can a pharmacist prescribe antibiotics for an ear infection?
For children aged 1 to 17, yes, if an in-person check shows an antibiotic is needed. This can't be done by video. Adults with ear pain should speak to a pharmacist for advice or contact their GP. Pharmacy First ear infection
Can a pharmacist prescribe antibiotics for tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is covered by the Pharmacy First sore throat pathway for anyone aged 5 and over. Most sore throats are viral, so antibiotics are only supplied when a symptom score points to a bacterial infection. Pharmacy First sore throat
Can a pharmacist give antibiotics for a tooth infection?
No. Tooth infections need a dentist. If you can't get an appointment, call NHS 111 for urgent dental care. A pharmacist can advise on pain relief while you wait.
Why a pharmacist might not give you antibiotics
Antibiotics don't work on viruses, which cause most coughs, colds and sore throats. Taking them when they aren't needed can cause side effects and makes them work less well in future. Your pharmacist will suggest what to do instead, such as pain relief, rest and fluids, and tell you when to come back.
What it costs
The consultation is free. If you normally pay for prescriptions, the standard NHS prescription charge applies to any medicine supplied. If you don't normally pay for prescriptions, you pay nothing.
How to use Pharmacy First at Bury Healthcare Pharmacy
Walk in at 46 Walmersley Road, Bury, call 0161 222 1024, or book a video consultation from anywhere in England if you're 16 or over. You don't need a GP referral. NHS Pharmacy First in Bury
When to get urgent help
Call 999 if you have chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of sepsis or a stroke, or you feel very unwell. Call NHS 111 if you need urgent help and aren't sure where to go.
Frequently asked questions
Can pharmacists prescribe antibiotics in the UK?
Can I get antibiotics without seeing a GP?
Do I need an appointment?
Is it free?
What if the pharmacist says I don't need antibiotics?
Will my GP know?
This guide covers England. The rules are different in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
This page is general information about an NHS service and does not replace advice from your GP. Sources: NHS website condition and contraception pages; NHS England Pharmacy First and Pharmacy Contraception Service specifications.