Knowing how prescription costs work in Ireland helps you plan ahead and avoid surprises. Prices vary by medicine, brand or generic status, and pharmacy. State supports can lower monthly out of pocket spend, and there are practical steps to reduce costs while keeping treatment safe.
What makes up the price of a prescription?
The total you pay usually includes the medicine cost and the pharmacy dispensing fee. Medicine cost varies with strength, pack size and whether a generic is available. You can also check typical prescription prices to benchmark common medicines.
Generic versus branded medicines
Many medicines are available as generics. A generic contains the same active ingredient, dose and quality standard as the original brand. It has been assessed by regulators to ensure it works to the same clinical effect within accepted variation. The main differences are the name, the appearance of the pack and tablet, and the price. Generics are usually less expensive because the original company’s patent has expired, which allows other manufacturers to supply the medicine.
In Ireland, pharmacists can offer a generic where it is appropriate for your prescription. If your doctor has marked a prescription as do not substitute, the pharmacist must supply the specified brand. If substitution is allowed, the pharmacist will recommend a best value option and explain any minor differences such as tablet shape or pack design. If you have allergies or a history of sensitivity to certain tablet coatings, tell the pharmacist so a suitable product can be chosen.
How the Drugs Payment Scheme works
The Drugs Payment Scheme limits the amount a household pays in a calendar month for approved medicines and appliances once registered. You pay up to the cap each month at the pharmacy. Costs above the cap are covered by the scheme. Keep receipts and check that all eligible family members are included on your registration. If your household uses more than one pharmacy, keep a monthly tally so you know when you have reached the cap.
If you would like to order a prescription online you can use our online doctor partner Zava. They will send us your prescription via Healthmail and we will have it delivered to your door in 1-2 working days.
Medical card prescription charges
People with medical cards do not pay for the medicine itself. A small charge per item applies, up to a monthly maximum. People aged over 70 have a lower charge and cap. The charge applies whether you choose collection or delivery. If you have both a medical card and high monthly costs for household members without a card, ask the pharmacist to help you work out whether the Drugs Payment Scheme applies alongside other supports for those family members.
Private patients and budgeting tips
If you pay privately, simple steps can reduce costs without cutting corners:
- Ask about generics or best value brands where appropriate.
- Consider three or six month supplies for stable medicines.
- Synchronise refills so everything is collected or delivered together.
Price transparency and quotes
Pharmacies can provide a quote before dispensing. Quotes are helpful if your doctor is considering a new treatment and you want to understand the likely monthly cost. Bring a list of your current medicines or send a photo of the labels. If a medicine is very new or in short supply, the pharmacy may need to check availability with suppliers before confirming a price.
Saving without cutting corners
Choose generics when appropriate, avoid stocking up too far ahead of expiry dates, and dispose of unused medicines safely. If an inhaler or injection device has a counter or expiry after opening, note the date on the box so you do not open a new pack too soon. Never change dose or skip doses to save money. If costs are becoming difficult, speak to the pharmacist or your doctor about options such as dose forms with better value or treatment plans that fit your budget and your condition.
Understanding fees and professional work
Dispensing involves more than handing over a box. Pharmacists check interactions, confirm dosing, label the medicine, provide counselling, and record the supply in a secure system. The dispensing fee funds this professional work. If the pharmacist needs to contact your doctor to clarify a prescription, that time is included in the service. Asking for advice about side effects, device technique or travel storage is part of routine care and is encouraged.
FAQs
Do online orders cost more than in store?
No. Pricing follows the same rules, and state supports apply in the same way.
What is a generic medicine?
A medicine with the same active ingredient, strength and quality as the original brand, supplied under a different name and usually at a lower cost.
Can I ask for a generic?
Yes, if your prescription allows substitution. Your pharmacist will advise on appropriate options.
Does the Drugs Payment Scheme cover delivery fees?
The scheme applies to approved medicines and appliances. Ask the pharmacy about any separate delivery fee.
Can I get a quote before starting a new medicine?
Yes. Bring a list or photos of your current medicines and the team will estimate the cost.
If you need a prescription for a common condition and want a quick route to care, consider an online doctor.
