Can You Get Antibiotics Over the Counter in the UK?

Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, helping many people recover from illnesses that could be serious or even life-threatening. However, using antibiotics comes with responsibility. 

Dispensers must follow specific guidelines when prescribing antibiotics. These regulations are designed to protect public health and ensure effective treatment. They also promote the responsible use of antibiotics in the UK, prevent unnecessary prescriptions, and prevent the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.

What are antibiotics, and what do they treat?

Antibiotics work by killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth so the immune system can more effectively eliminate the infection.

There are lots of different types of antibiotics: 

• Penicillins: This group includes medications like penicillin, amoxicillin, co-amoxiclav, flucloxacillin, and phenoxymethylpenicillin. They are commonly used to treat skin infections, respiratory infections, and UTIs.
  
• Aminoglycosides: These antibiotics, like gentamicin and tobramycin, are typically reserved for serious conditions like sepsis and are usually administered in a hospital setting.
  
• Cephalosporins: Antibiotics like cefalexin address a broad spectrum of infections. Some cephalosporins are particularly effective against severe infections like sepsis and meningitis.
  
• Tetracyclines: This group includes tetracycline, doxycycline, and lymecycline. Tetracyclines treat many infections but are often used for acne and rosacea.
  
• Macrolides: Medications like azithromycin, erythromycin, and clarithromycin are useful for treating lung and chest infections and are an alternative for people allergic to penicillin or when dealing with penicillin-resistant bacteria.

Other antibiotics are also available that don’t fall into these categories, like chloramphenicol (used for eye and ear infections), fusidic acid (used in Fucidin cream for bacterial skin infections), and trimethoprim and nitrofurantoin (used for UTIs).

Can you get antibiotics over the counter in the UK?

In the UK, antibiotics are unavailable over the counter due to the product’s strength and the potential risks associated with their misuse. Most antibiotics need a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional, like a doctor, nurse practitioner, or, in some cases, a pharmacist with additional qualifications. This makes sure that antibiotics are only used when necessary and appropriate for the specific infection being treated.

That said, there are some ways to access antibiotics without a traditional doctor’s visit:

• Pharmacy Consultations: Some pharmacists can assess your symptoms and prescribe certain antibiotics for specific conditions.
• Online Services: Online pharmacists like us at Click2Pharmacy give you the option to consult with a licensed pharmacist independent prescriber (PIP) from the comfort of your own home. We can evaluate your situation and prescribe antibiotics if necessary, giving you a convenient option without needing to schedule a doctor’s appointment. 
• Patient Group Directions (PGDs): In some cases, pharmacists can provide specific antibiotics under PGDs for certain conditions and situations, like immunisations and holiday vaccinations. This means you can get treatment quickly while still having safety measures in place.

There are a few exceptions to this rule, like certain topical antibiotic creams or ointments for minor skin infections. However, these are limited in their application and strength compared to oral antibiotics.

Can I buy antibiotics privately in the UK?

In the UK, antibiotics can be purchased privately through private prescriptions. This option allows you to get the medications you need without going through the NHS. This service is perfect for those who prefer a discreet and efficient way to manage their health needs. 

At Click2Pharmacy, we make it easy for you to access private prescriptions for antibiotics. Simply book a consultation with one of our qualified pharmacists, who will assess your condition and determine if antibiotics are necessary. If they are, we can provide you with a private prescription and dispense the medication right away. 

Private prescriptions for antibiotics may be more expensive than NHS prescriptions, as you’ll need to pay for both the consultation and the full cost of the medication. However, this option can provide quicker access to treatment.

Can I get antibiotics without seeing a doctor?

Pharmacists cannot prescribe all antibiotics. However, if you’re struggling to get an appointment with a GP, under the new Pharmacy First Service launched on 31 January 2024, pharmacists in England can now prescribe certain medicines for seven common conditions:

• Earache
• Urinary tract infections
• Sore throat 
• Sinusitis
• Impetigo 
• Shingles
• Infected insect bites

This new scheme provides a convenient alternative for accessing treatment. When you visit a participating pharmacy, the local pharmacist will assess your symptoms. If they determine that antibiotics or other prescription medicines are appropriate, they can give them to you directly. You’ll still need to see your GP for conditions not covered by this scheme or if your symptoms are severe. 

What can I take instead of antibiotics?

Skin and viral infections such as colds, flu and most coughs cannot be cured with antibiotics, so they won’t be prescribed. Instead, there are several alternatives you can try to manage symptoms:

• Over-the-counter pain relief: Medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage mild to moderate pain and discomfort, reduce inflammation and lower high temperatures. 
• Decongestants: Nasal sprays like Otrivine nasal spray can relieve sinusitis symptoms and other upper respiratory issues.
• Throat Lozenges: Tyrozets lozenges can soothe a sore throat and offer temporary relief.
• Saltwater gargles: This can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation.
• Fungal infections: Conditions like thrush or athlete’s foot can be treated with Canesten Hydrocortisone cream  

If your symptoms persist or worsen, you may require antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. They can provide guidance on whether you need antibiotics or if over-the-counter treatments are sufficient for your condition.

Prescription Medicines from Click2Pharmacy

At Click2Pharmacy, we strive to provide the best online healthcare service, connecting you with qualified UK pharmacists who have the knowledge and understanding to address your concerns.

Click2Pharmacy is a registered online pharmacy in the UK, regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council and NHS. Our online clinic offers prescription treatment services, including NHS repeat prescriptions, allowing you to access the right medical treatment when you need it from the comfort of your home. We can also dispense any prescription written by a UK GMC registered doctor so that you receive safe and effective treatment.

Explore online clinics and start a consultation with Click2Pharmacy today for convenient and reliable healthcare support.