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MedExpress Team, clinically reviewed by Dr Tim Jollyman

Article by MedExpress Team, clinically reviewed by Dr Tim Jollyman

How Does Online Pharmacy Work?


At MedExpress, we believe clinically proven treatments should be easily accessible to everyone. Online pharmacies allow you to get medication discreetly delivered to your door, without needing to wait for an in-person appointment or visit your local pharmacy. We’re here to answer your questions about how online pharmacy works, whether it’s safe, and what the benefits are. 

Why are online pharmacies popular?

There are lots of reasons why online pharmacy use is on the rise in the UK. Long wait times for GP appointments mean that prescriptions aren’t always easily accessible, so many people are turning to online pharmacies for a faster solution. 

Online pharmacies also remove barriers to certain medications that aren’t available on NHS prescriptions, as well as the anxiety that sometimes comes with discussing conditions in person. 

Are online pharmacies safe to use?

To protect yourself from unsafe pharmacies, it’s important to be cautious when accessing medicines online. Only licensed and regulated online pharmacies are safe to use, and if they’re not, it’s not possible to know whether or not they’re legitimate providers. You should avoid online pharmacies that:

  • Don’t require a prescription.
  • Aren’t licensed in the UK by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
  • Don’t have a licensed pharmacist to answer your questions.
  • Offer big discounts or extremely low prices.
  • Don’t clearly explain how your personal and financial information will be protected. 
  • Share your information with other websites. 

MedExpress is registered as an internet pharmacy with our regulator, the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). We’re regularly audited at both individual and company level in areas including: professional competence, clinical governance and making sure we safely recommend and prescribe treatment. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) also authorises us to sell medicines online. We use the same pharmaceutical suppliers and wholesalers as traditional high-street pharmacies.

How does MedExpress work?

To get a prescription from MedExpress, just follow three simple steps.

Step 1: Start a consultation

First, complete a free, two-minute online consultation. Choose a condition from our treatment options and click ‘Start your consultation’. Then, fill in a quick questionnaire about your health. 

Step 2: Order your medication

MedExpress has a wide range of treatments available, for both short-term and chronic long-term conditions. Based on your consultation, our medical team will recommend and prescribe the right medication for you. 

Step 3: Get it delivered

Your treatment will be sent to you in discreet packaging, direct from our central London pharmacy. There are plenty of express delivery options available, and you can have it delivered to your home, office or local post office.  


What are the benefits of using online pharmacies?

Discreet 

Some medical conditions may feel difficult to talk about in person. Online pharmacies let you get the help you need without having to see your GP or pharmacist face-to-face. Plus, MedExpress ships your orders in plain packaging, so you’re in control of who knows about your health. 

Low cost

MedExpress is a low-cost option because you don’t have to pay a separate fee for consultation, prescription and medication — unlike similar services from other private healthcare providers.

Accessibility

Online pharmacies are convenient for people who live in rural areas, or who may not be able to physically get to their nearest pharmacy. Every step is completed online, then your medication is sent straight to you. 

No in-person appointments

Your health questionnaire is 100% online. This removes the hassle of booking and waiting for a face-to-face appointment with your GP. 

Fast delivery

You receive a same-day prescription and your medicine is shipped directly to your door, with plenty of express delivery options available. 

Want to take control of your health? Start a free consultation to get your medications online, quickly and easily.