Only Order What You Need – Reducing Medicines Waste

Medicines waste is a growing issue across the NHS and has an impact on patient safety, NHS resources, and the environment.

Across England, it is estimated that around £300 million worth of prescribed medicines are wasted every year. This waste can lead to medicine shortages, increased costs for the NHS, and potential risks if medicines are stored or disposed of incorrectly.

In Barking & Dagenham and across East London, we are supporting the NHS campaign to help reduce unnecessary medicines waste and encourage safe use of medicines.

💊 Why Reducing Medicines Waste Matters

• Ensures medicines are available for patients who need them
• Reduces pressure on NHS services
• Protects the environment
• Improves patient safety
• Helps the NHS use resources more effectively

✅ How You Can Help

You can make a big difference by following these simple steps:

1. Check your medicines before you order
Before requesting your repeat prescription, check what medicines you already have at home. If you still have enough, you can wait before ordering more.

2. Only order what you need
Medicines can expire and may not work as intended if stored for too long. Ordering only what you need helps prevent waste and shortages.

3. Return unused medicines to your pharmacy
If you have medicines you no longer need, take them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.
🚫 Do not put medicines in the bin or flush them down the toilet.

4. Talk to us if you’re unsure
If you are not taking your medicines or have concerns, speak to your GP or pharmacist. A medication review can help ensure your treatment is right for you.

5. Check your prescription before leaving the pharmacy
If you receive medicines you do not need, return them to the pharmacy straight away.

🌍 Working Together

By making small changes to how medicines are ordered, stored, and returned, we can all help reduce waste, protect the environment, and ensure NHS resources are used safely and effectively.

📍 Our Commitment

At Barking Medical Group, we are supporting the North East London medicines waste campaign and encouraging all our patients to play their part.

❓ Need Help?

If you have any questions about your medicines, please speak to our team or your local pharmacist — we are here to help.