Pharmacies in Cosham

Prescription services and health advice

Cosham has several pharmacies serving the district, including a Boots on the High Street and pharmacies within or near the supermarkets. These provide prescription dispensing, over-the-counter medicines, health products and an increasing range of NHS services.

Electronic prescribing is standard, meaning prescriptions are sent directly from the GP to the pharmacy electronically in most cases. This allows patients to collect their medication without carrying a paper prescription. Many pharmacies also offer a prescription delivery service for housebound patients, which is particularly valued by elderly and disabled residents.

The NHS Pharmacy First scheme allows pharmacists to assess and treat certain common conditions without the need for a GP appointment. Conditions covered include urinary tract infections in women, earache, sore throats, sinusitis, shingles, impetigo and infected insect bites. This can save a trip to the doctor and is especially useful when GP appointments are in short supply.

Other pharmacy services include seasonal flu vaccinations, COVID vaccinations, blood pressure monitoring, cholesterol checks, smoking cessation support, travel health consultations and medication reviews for patients on multiple prescriptions.

Over-the-counter medicines for common complaints are available without prescription, and pharmacists can advise on suitable treatments for minor ailments including coughs, colds, hay fever, aches and pains and skin conditions.

Boots on the High Street keeps standard retail hours and is the most visible pharmacy in the centre. The supermarket pharmacies at Tesco and Asda often have extended opening hours, including some Sunday opening. The NHS website lists opening hours for all pharmacies in the area. Prescription charges apply for most adults in England, though there are numerous exemptions for those over 60, under 16, pregnant, or with certain medical conditions.