Introduction
When it comes to buying medication in the UK, it’s crucial to understand the difference between over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription-only medicines (POMs). This guide breaks down what each category means, what’s legal to buy without a prescription, and the implications of misuse.
What Are Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines?
Over-the-counter medicines are those you can legally purchase without a prescription. These include everyday treatments for common ailments such as:
Headaches and pain (e.g. paracetamol, ibuprofen)
Coughs and colds (e.g. Lemsip, Benylin)
Allergies (e.g. loratadine, cetirizine)
Indigestion (e.g. Gaviscon, Rennie)
Where to Buy:
Pharmacies
Supermarkets
Online UK-registered pharmacy websites
Restrictions:
Age limits (e.g. some cold & flu products are not suitable for children under 12)
Quantity limits (e.g. no more than 32 paracetamol tablets per transaction)
What Are Prescription-Only Medicines (POMs)?
Prescription medicines require a valid prescription from a registered UK medical practitioner. These include:
Antibiotics (e.g. amoxicillin)
Strong painkillers (e.g. codeine phosphate, morphine)
Sedatives and sleeping pills (e.g. diazepam, zopiclone)
Antidepressants (e.g. sertraline, fluoxetine)
Why They’re Regulated:
Risk of addiction, side effects, or misuse
Need for medical supervision
Controlled dosages for safe use
How to Get Them:
GP consultation (in person or via NHS/online services)
Private clinics or telehealth platforms
Online pharmacies with prescription verification
What’s Illegal in the UK?
Buying or selling prescription-only drugs without a prescription is illegal and can lead to:
Fines or imprisonment
Seizure of goods
Bans on pharmacy websites
Examples of illegal actions:
Buying diazepam or tramadol online without a prescription
Importing controlled drugs from overseas websites
Selling codeine-based medicines without verifying age and use
Can You Buy Medicines Online in the UK?
Yes, but only from MHRA-registered online pharmacies. Look for:
A valid General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration
An MHRA logo on the website
Secure payment systems and prescription verification
Conclusion
Understanding the legal boundaries between OTC and prescription medicines helps keep you safe and compliant. Always consult a healthcare provider for advice, and only buy medications from registered UK sources.
