Spending less on medicines in Ireland is possible without cutting corners. A handful of practical habits can lower monthly costs and reduce time spent organising refills. Using the Drugs Payment Scheme where eligible, choosing best value brands, and planning three or six month supplies for stable treatment are simple ways to make medicines more affordable and easier to manage.
Register for the Drugs Payment Scheme
The Drugs Payment Scheme places a monthly cap on approved medicines and appliances for your household once you register. If several family members use medicines, the cap can make a noticeable difference. Keep receipts for each month and ask the pharmacy for a statement if you need one. If your household uses more than one pharmacy, track spend across them so you know when you have reached the cap.
Registering is straightforward. You can apply online or by post using the official form, then show your card in the pharmacy each month. If your household circumstances change, update your registration so the right family members are included.
Ask about generics and best value brands
Generics contain the same active ingredient, strength and quality standard as the original brand, usually at a lower cost. Pharmacists can offer a generic when appropriate and will explain any small differences such as tablet shape or pack appearance. If your prescription does not allow substitution, the pharmacist must supply the brand stated by the doctor. If substitution is allowed, the pharmacist will recommend a best value option that suits your treatment.
Plan refills to avoid last minute orders
Set reminders a week before you are due to run out. If you use several medicines, ask the pharmacist to synchronise them so repeats are due around the same week. This allows collection or delivery in one go and reduces delivery fees if they apply. Keep a short buffer where your condition allows so a late bus or a missed call does not mean missing a dose.
You can order your prescription through an online doctor if your condition is appropriate for remote assessment. After assessment, the doctor can send a prescription to your chosen pharmacy using Healthmail.
Consider three or six month supplies where appropriate
For stable long term treatment, three or six month supplies can reduce cost and admin. This is common for blood pressure tablets, thyroid treatment and certain inhalers. Longer supplies should always be agreed with your doctor and pharmacist so they match your condition and storage space.
Compare like for like
When comparing prices, make sure you are looking at the same strength and pack size. If a price seems very low, ask whether it is a different strength, a smaller pack, or a special offer that will not apply next month. You can request a written quote so you have the details to hand when you are budgeting.
Use delivery to save time
Delivery does not change your eligibility for state schemes. It can reduce travel costs and time away from work or caring responsibilities. Combine delivery with three or six month supplies to cut down the number of handovers each year. New to ordering online? See how it works and prescription prices for typical costs.
Storage, expiry and avoiding waste
Store medicines in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight unless the label says otherwise. Keep them out of reach of children. Check expiry dates when you pick up a new supply and rotate older packs to the front of your cupboard. Many liquids and devices have a shorter life after opening. Write the opening date on the label to avoid discarding unused medicine later.
FAQs
Will longer supplies increase my costs?
Not usually. You pay for the medicine supplied. The Drugs Payment Scheme may cap your monthly total if your household is registered.
Can I switch to a lower cost brand?
Often yes, if substitution is allowed and suitable for you. Ask the pharmacist for options.
Is delivery covered by my usual schemes?
State schemes apply to the medicine and appliances. Ask the pharmacy about any separate delivery fee.
Can an online doctor help if I do not have a prescription?
Yes for suitable conditions after assessment. The doctor can send a prescription to your chosen pharmacy using Healthmail.
