What should you know about repeat prescription paper?

The document may include your identifying details, the medicine name, strength, form, directions, quantity, and prescriber details. Read the label supplied with the medicine as well, because it is the practical instruction for taking that dispensed item. A paper request or repeat form is not necessarily an authorisation: the prescriber must approve the supply. Keep the document private and avoid altering writing or instructions.

Check that your name and medicine details are correct before handing the paper to the pharmacy or clinic. Tell the pharmacist about allergies, side effects, missed doses, changed medicines, or a recent hospital stay. Store medicines as directed and keep them away from children. If the paper is lost, damaged, expired, or contains an error, contact the issuing clinic rather than crossing out details yourself. Request the next supply early enough to allow for review and dispensing.

Get prompt advice if you are about to run out of an essential medicine, cannot understand the directions, or have taken the wrong amount. Seek emergency care for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, facial swelling, or sudden serious symptoms after taking a medicine.

Ask whether the paper is a request or an approved prescription, when it expires, how repeats are authorised, and what to do if your medicine or dose changes.