Written by Dr. Simon Khela MBChB MRCGP, GMC Registered Doctor
Last reviewed: 27-07-2026
Quick answer: A private prescription through Private Medical Clinic costs £74–£120 in fees a GP consultation (£49 online or £95 face-to-face) plus a £25 prescription fee before the medication itself, which is priced separately by the pharmacy.
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You can have the medication dispensed at SignatureRx online, or at any registered UK pharmacy full fee details are on our fees page.
An NHS prescription costs £9.90 per item in England (free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). A Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) can reduce this if you need several items a month but it only covers NHS prescriptions, not private ones.
Private is occasionally cheaper for low-cost generic medications, since the NHS charge is flat regardless of the drug. For branded or specialist medication, private is usually more expensive.
Mainly for speed and flexibility: same-day appointments without a GP waiting list, a second opinion, access to a medication your NHS GP won't prescribe for your situation, or travel documentation needed quickly. Private GP appointments have no time limits, so there's room to actually discuss what you need.
Generic medications use the same active ingredient as the branded version but cost less, since there's no R&D or marketing cost built in. Ask your GP whether a generic option suits your situation it's usually the simplest way to bring the cost down.
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How does this compare to Tesco, Boots, or Superdrug private prescription charges?
High street pharmacies set their own dispensing prices, so it varies by branch and medication our £25 fee is specifically for the GP writing and issuing the prescription, separate from wherever you get it dispensed.
Is there a private prescription cost calculator?
Not a fixed one pricing depends on the specific medication, so your GP will confirm the likely cost during your consultation before you commit to anything.
Does a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) cover private prescriptions?
No a PPC only reduces NHS prescription costs, not private prescription fees.
Can I use a private prescription at any pharmacy?
Yes, at any registered UK pharmacy, not just the one that issued it.
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