NHS Medicines Waste Reduction Campaign

Let’s Work Together to Reduce Medicines Waste

Every year, millions of pounds worth of medicines are wasted across the NHS — medicines that could have been used to care for more patients. You can help us make a difference.

🏠 Only Order What You Need

Before reordering your prescription:
• Check what medicines you still have at home.
• Only request the medicines you need this time.
You’ll still be able to order the others in future if you need them.

Visit: www.cheshireandmerseyside.nhs.uk/medicines-waste to find out more.

💼 Check Your Prescription Bag Straight Away

When collecting your medicines:
• Check your bag before leaving the pharmacy to make sure you only have what you need.
• If something looks wrong or extra, speak to your pharmacy team.

💬 Let Us Know if Your Medicines Are No Longer Right for You

Your medicines should always be right for your health needs.
• Ask for a medication review if you think your medicines are not working well for you.
• Your pharmacy or GP can help make sure your medicines are optimised for your care.

🏥 Take Your Medicines Into Hospital

If you go into hospital:
• Keep an up-to-date list of your medicines on your NHS App.
• Take your medicines in with you so your hospital team knows exactly what you take.

🗑️ Dispose of Medicines Safely

Never throw medicines in the bin or down the toilet.
• Return unused or out-of-date medicines to your pharmacy for safe disposal.
• Pharmacies can also take back used inhalers to reduce environmental impact.

❤️ Thank You for Helping Us Reduce Medicines Waste

Together, we can reduce waste, protect the environment, and make NHS resources go further for everyone.

For more information, visit: www.cheshireandmerseyside.nhs.uk/medicines-waste