Evidence-Based Treatments

Treatments backed by clinical science

Every treatment is supported by peer-reviewed trials and issued by our GPhC-registered pharmacists. Real data. Real results.

Treatment data last updated20 Sept 2026 · 11:42

12+

Peer-Reviewed Trials

50k+

Patients Treated

82%

Avg Efficacy Rate

<24hr

Consultation Time

Weight Loss Clinic

SURMOUNT-1 Trial, NEJM 2022

Up to 22.5% body weight reduction in clinical trials

up to 22.5%

Avg Weight Loss

at 72 weeks (GLP-1/GIP trials)

91%

Patients Responding

lost ≥5% body weight

2,539

Study Participants

randomised controlled trial

Following GPhC guidance for online pharmacies, you are assessed for a condition — not a specific medicine. A GPhC-registered prescriber reviews your assessment and chooses the treatment that is clinically appropriate and safe for you.

Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide)

Treats: Weight loss (obesity)

Tirzepatide activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors simultaneously.

Efficacy22.5% mean body weight reduction at 72 weeks (SURMOUNT-1).

Injectable — once weekly

SURMOUNT-1 (NEJM 2022); NICE TA875 (2023)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Wegovy® (Semaglutide 2.4mg)

Treats: Weight loss (obesity)

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 analogue with 94% homology to human GLP-1.

Efficacy20.7% mean weight reduction at 72 weeks (STEP 1).

Injectable — once weekly

STEP 1 (NEJM 2021); NICE TA875 (2023)

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Wegovy® Pill (Oral Semaglutide 25mg)

Treats: Weight loss (obesity)

Oral semaglutide 25mg uses an absorption enhancer (SNAC) that transiently increases local gastric pH, protecting the semaglutide peptide from enzymatic degradation and enabling transcellular absorption through the gastric mucosa.

Efficacy13.6% mean body weight reduction at 64 weeks (OASIS-4).

Oral tablet — once daily

OASIS-4 (NEJM 2025); SELECT cardiovascular outcomes trial; first oral GLP-1 for weight loss

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Saxenda® (Liraglutide)

Treats: Weight loss (obesity)

Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist with 97% homology to human GLP-1.

EfficacyAverage 8% body weight loss at 56 weeks (SCALE trial) alongside diet and exercise.

Injectable — once daily

SCALE (NEJM 2015); NICE TA661 (2022)

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Orlistat 120mg (Xenical® / Generic)

Treats: Weight loss (obesity)

Orlistat irreversibly inhibits gastric and pancreatic lipases in the gut lumen, preventing breakdown and absorption of approximately 30% of dietary fat.

EfficacyAverage 5.8kg additional weight loss vs placebo at 1 year.

Oral capsule — 3× daily with meals

NICE CG189 (2014 updated 2023); XENDOS trial

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Foundayo™ (Orforglipron)

Treats: Weight loss (obesity)

Orforglipron is a first-in-class oral, non-peptide small-molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist.

Efficacy12.4% mean body weight reduction at 72 weeks (ATTAIN-1) at the maximum dose alongside lifestyle changes..

Oral tablet — once daily

ATTAIN-1 (2025); orforglipron Phase 3, Eli Lilly

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Individual results vary. Treatment is prescribed only if clinically appropriate following assessment by a GPhC-registered prescriber.

Hair Loss Clinic

NICE CKS Alopecia (androgenetic) · BAD · SPS

Clinically proven treatments for male pattern hair loss

90%

Hair Loss Halted

finasteride stops loss

60%

Regrowth

visible with minoxidil

3–6 mths

Time to Results

with daily use

Following GPhC guidance for online pharmacies, you are assessed for a condition — not a specific medicine. A GPhC-registered prescriber reviews your assessment and chooses the treatment that is clinically appropriate and safe for you.

Personalised Hair Loss Treatment (RXClinic)

Treats: Personalised hair loss treatment

Your RXClinic bespoke hair formulation is compounded individually for you from prescription-grade actives selected by a pharmacist independent prescriber after reviewing your questionnaire and scalp photos.

EfficacyPersonalised compounded topical hair therapy halts progression and supports regrowth in up to 9 out of 10 men with male pattern baldness, with visible results at 3–6 months of consistent use.

Topical scalp serum + optional oral — bespoke compounded, applied nightly

NICE CKS Alopecia (androgenetic) · BAD / Primary Care Dermatology Society · SPS Topical minoxidil, Finasteride, Dutasteride, Oral minoxidil · Cochrane Review on topical minoxidil · MHRA · NPA Pharmacist Independent Prescriber Guidance · GPhC Guidance for Pharmacist Prescribers · GPhC Standards for Pharmacy Professionals

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Finasteride 1mg (Hair Loss)

Treats: Male hair loss

Finasteride inhibits the type II 5α-reductase enzyme, blocking conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

EfficacyStops hair loss in around 90% of men and improves regrowth in around 65% at 2 years.

Oral tablet — once daily

NICE CKS Alopecia (androgenetic); Finasteride 1mg RCTs

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Dutasteride 0.5mg (Hair Loss)

Treats: Male hair loss

Dutasteride inhibits both type I and type II 5α-reductase, blocking conversion of testosterone to DHT more completely (~90% reduction) than finasteride.

EfficacySuperior to finasteride in hair regrowth in trials (off-label for hair loss in the UK).

Oral capsule — once daily

NICE CKS Alopecia (androgenetic); Dutasteride alopecia RCTs (off-label)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Minoxidil (Topical 5% / Oral)

Treats: Male hair loss

Minoxidil is a potassium-channel opener that increases cutaneous blood flow and hair follicle ATP, extending the anagen (growth) phase and enlarging miniaturised follicles in androgenetic alopecia.

EfficacyVisible regrowth in ~60% of men at 6 months when used consistently; ongoing use required — hair loss resumes within 3–4 months of stopping..

Topical foam or oral tablet — once/twice daily

NICE CKS Alopecia (androgenetic); BAD; JDD oral minoxidil reviews

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Individual results vary. Treatment is prescribed only if clinically appropriate following assessment by a GPhC-registered prescriber.

Skin Clinic

NICE CG184 / CKS / NG81 · BAD

Prescription dermatology: acne, eczema & rosacea

85%

Acne Clearance

with Rx combination therapy

76%

Fungal Nail Cure

oral terbinafine at 12 wks

1 in 10

Eczema / Rosacea

adults affected

Following GPhC guidance for online pharmacies, you are assessed for a condition — not a specific medicine. A GPhC-registered prescriber reviews your assessment and chooses the treatment that is clinically appropriate and safe for you.

Lymecycline / Doxycycline

Treats: Acne

Tetracyclines inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by binding the 30S ribosomal subunit, reducing Cutibacterium acnes colonisation.

Efficacy65–75% reduction in inflammatory lesions at 12 weeks.

Oral capsule — once or twice daily

NICE CG184 (2021); JAAD Acne Guidelines 2022

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Eczema & Dermatitis (Topical Steroids)

Treats: Eczema / dermatitis

Topical corticosteroids bind intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, prostaglandins and leukotrienes.

EfficacyReduces inflammation and itch in 1–2 weeks; potency chosen by body site and severity per NICE..

Cream / ointment — once or twice daily

NICE CKS Eczema — atopic

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Rosacea (Metronidazole / Ivermectin / Azelaic Acid)

Treats: Rosacea

Rosacea is treated with topical anti-inflammatories: metronidazole reduces inflammatory mediators and Demodex load; ivermectin targets Demodex mites implicated in papulopustular rosacea; azelaic acid reduces neutrophilic inflammation and hyperpigmentation..

EfficacyReduces papules/pustules by 50–70% at 12 weeks; effects maintained with ongoing use..

Gel / cream — once or twice daily

NICE CKS Rosacea; BAD / Primary Care Dermatology Society

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Duac® (Benzoyl Peroxide 5% + Clindamycin 1%)

Treats: Acne

Duac combines clindamycin (a lincosamide antibiotic that inhibits Cutibacterium acnes protein synthesis via the 50S ribosomal subunit) with benzoyl peroxide (a keratolytic and bactericidal oxidant).

Efficacy67–80% reduction in inflammatory lesions at 11 weeks.

Gel — once daily at bedtime

NICE CG184 (Acne vulgaris 2021); BAD/European Acne Guidelines; SPS Topical antibiotics + BPO; MHRA

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Treclin® (Tretinoin 0.025% + Clindamycin 1%)

Treats: Acne

Treclin combines tretinoin (a first-generation retinoid that normalises follicular keratinocyte shedding and reduces microcomedones) with clindamycin (antibacterial against C.

EfficacySignificant reduction in inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions from 2 weeks; maximal at 12 weeks.

Gel — once daily at bedtime

NICE CG184 (Acne vulgaris 2021); BAD; SPS Tretinoin + clindamycin; MHRA

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Epiduo® (Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% + Adapalene 0.1%)

Treats: Acne

Epiduo combines adapalene (a synthetic third-generation retinoid with comedolytic and anti-inflammatory action via retinoic acid receptors) with benzoyl peroxide (bactericidal against C.

EfficacySignificant lesion reduction from 1 week; maximal effect at 12 weeks.

Gel — once daily at bedtime

NICE CG184 (Acne vulgaris 2021); BAD; SPS Adapalene + benzoyl peroxide; MHRA

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Differin® (Adapalene 0.1%)

Treats: Acne

Adapalene is a synthetic third-generation retinoid with selective affinity for retinoic acid receptor (RAR)-β/γ.

EfficacyReduces both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions from 8–12 weeks.

Gel or cream — once daily at bedtime

NICE CG184 (Acne vulgaris 2021); BAD; SPS Adapalene; MHRA

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Personalised Skin Treatment (RXClinic)

Treats: Personalised skin treatment

Your RXClinic bespoke formulation is compounded individually for you from prescription-grade active ingredients selected by a pharmacist independent prescriber after reviewing your questionnaire and photos.

EfficacyPersonalised compounded topical therapy achieves clinically meaningful improvement in acne, pigmentation, texture and signs of ageing by combining actives at tolerable strengths in a single coordinated formulation — adapting each cycle to your skin's response..

Topical — bespoke compounded formulation, applied nightly

NICE CG184 (Acne) · NICE CKS Rosacea / Eczema · BAD (British Association of Dermatologists) · SPS Topical retinoids & compounded preparations · MHRA · NPA Pharmacist Independent Prescriber Guidance · GPhC Guidance for Pharmacist Prescribers · GPhC Standards for Pharmacy Professionals

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Individual results vary. Treatment is prescribed only if clinically appropriate following assessment by a GPhC-registered prescriber.

Men's Health

NICE CKS Erectile dysfunction · BSSM 2023 · EAU PE Guidelines 2024

Evidence-based men's health: ED & premature ejaculation

82%

ED Response

to PDE5 inhibitors

30–60 min

Onset

PDE5 inhibitor action

PE Control

dapoxetine IELT increase

Following GPhC guidance for online pharmacies, you are assessed for a condition — not a specific medicine. A GPhC-registered prescriber reviews your assessment and chooses the treatment that is clinically appropriate and safe for you.

Sildenafil (Viagra®/Generic)

Treats: Erectile dysfunction

Sildenafil selectively inhibits phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), the enzyme that degrades cGMP in smooth muscle of corpus cavernosum.

Efficacy60–70% success rate vs 20% placebo.

Oral tablet — as needed, 30–60 min before

NICE CKS Erectile dysfunction; BSSM Guidelines 2023

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Tadalafil (Cialis®/Generic)

Treats: Erectile dysfunction

Tadalafil has the same mechanism as sildenafil but a much longer half-life of 17.5 hours, giving a 36-hour therapeutic window.

Efficacy79% of attempts successful on 20mg dose.

Oral tablet — as needed OR daily

NICE CKS Erectile dysfunction; Cochrane Review PDE5 Inhibitors (2022)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Viagra® (Branded)

Treats: Erectile dysfunction

Viagra® (branded sildenafil) selectively inhibits phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), the enzyme that degrades cGMP in the corpus cavernosum.

Efficacy60–70% success rate vs 20% placebo.

Oral tablet — as needed, 30–60 min before

NICE CKS Erectile dysfunction; BSSM Guidelines 2023

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Cialis® (Branded)

Treats: Erectile dysfunction

Cialis® (branded tadalafil) has the same PDE5 mechanism as sildenafil but a much longer half-life of 17.5 hours, giving a 36-hour therapeutic window.

Efficacy79% of attempts successful on 20mg dose.

Oral tablet — as needed OR daily

NICE CKS Erectile dysfunction; Cochrane Review PDE5 Inhibitors (2022)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Vardenafil (Levitra®)

Treats: Erectile dysfunction

Vardenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor with the same mechanism as sildenafil but is more potent, achieving therapeutic effect at lower doses.

EfficacyAround 80% of men report improved erections.

Oral tablet — as needed, 25–60 min before

NICE CKS Erectile dysfunction; BSSM Guidelines 2023; Cochrane PDE5 Review (2022)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Spedra® (Avanafil)

Treats: Erectile dysfunction

Avanafil is a highly selective PDE5 inhibitor with a faster onset (15–30 minutes) than other PDE5 inhibitors, due to rapid absorption.

EfficacyOnset as fast as 15 minutes.

Oral tablet — as needed, 15–30 min before

NICE CKS Erectile dysfunction; BSSM Guidelines 2023; European Avanafil studies

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Viagra Connect® 50mg (OTC Sildenafil)

Treats: Erectile dysfunction

Viagra Connect® is the over-the-counter pharmacy-strength formulation of sildenafil 50mg.

Efficacy60–70% success rate.

Oral tablet — as needed, 30–60 min before (50mg only)

NICE CKS Erectile dysfunction; BSSM Guidelines 2023; MHRA Viagra Connect reclassification (P medicine)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Priligy® (Dapoxetine)

Treats: Premature ejaculation

Dapoxetine is a short-acting selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) specifically developed and licensed for premature ejaculation.

EfficacyIncreases IELT by approximately 3× versus baseline.

Oral tablet — on demand, 1–3 hours before sex

European Association of Urology (EAU) Premature Ejaculation Guidelines 2024; NICE dapoxetine (TA531); BSSM/EAU PE guidance

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Priligy® (Dapoxetine)

Treats: Premature ejaculation

Dapoxetine is a short-acting selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that peaks within 1–2 hours and is rapidly eliminated.

EfficacyTrials show a 3–4× increase in IELT.

Oral tablet — 1–3 hours before intercourse

NICE CKS Premature ejaculation; EAU Guidelines 2022

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Individual results vary. Treatment is prescribed only if clinically appropriate following assessment by a GPhC-registered prescriber.

Women's Health

FSRH / NICE NG23 (Menopause) / BASHH

Discreet women's health: contraception, HRT, thrush, BV & more

>99%

Pill Efficacy

with perfect use

75–90%

HRT Relief

reduces hot flushes

>95%

Chlamydia Cure

with correct antibiotics

Following GPhC guidance for online pharmacies, you are assessed for a condition — not a specific medicine. A GPhC-registered prescriber reviews your assessment and chooses the treatment that is clinically appropriate and safe for you.

Norethisterone 5mg (Period Delay / Utovlan®)

Treats: Period delay

Norethisterone is a synthetic progestogen that maintains the uterine lining (endometrium) and prevents the hormonal drop that triggers menstruation.

EfficacyEffective at delaying menstruation in approximately 90% of women when started correctly.

Oral tablet — 3× daily, starting 3 days before period

BNF Norethisterone; FSRH Progestogen-Only Products

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill

Treats: Contraception

The combined pill contains ethinylestradiol (estrogen) and a progestogen.

Efficacy>99% effective with perfect use; ~91% with typical use.

Oral tablet — once daily, 21-day cycle

FSRH Combined Hormonal Contraception (2023); NICE NG30

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Desogestrel 75mcg (Progestogen-Only Pill)

Treats: Contraception

Desogestrel is a progestogen-only pill that suppresses ovulation and thickens cervical mucus.

Efficacy>99% effective with perfect use.

Oral tablet — once daily, continuous

FSRH Progestogen-Only (2021); NICE CKS Contraception (POP)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Thrush Treatment (Fluconazole 150mg)

Treats: Vaginal thrush

Fluconazole inhibits fungal lanosterol 14α-demethylase, disrupting ergosterol synthesis in the Candida cell membrane.

EfficacyRelieves symptoms in 80–90% of uncomplicated vaginal thrush within 2–3 days of a single dose..

Oral capsule — single dose

NICE CKS Candida (vaginal); BNF Fluconazole; FSRH

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Emergency Contraception (Levonorgestrel / ellaOne®)

Treats: Emergency contraception

Levonorgestrel (LNG) works mainly by delaying ovulation; ulipristal acetate (ellaOne®) is a progesterone receptor modulator that delays ovulation even closer to the LH surge.

EfficacyLNG prevents ~84–95% of pregnancies when taken within 72 hours (best within 12 hours).

Oral tablet — as soon as possible after unprotected sex

FSRH Clinical Guideline: Emergency Contraception; NICE CKS Contraception — emergency

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

HRT / Menopause (Oestrogen gel + Progestogen)

Treats: Menopause / HRT

HRT replaces oestrogen lost at menopause, relieving vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes, night sweats) and genitourinary symptoms and protecting bone density.

EfficacyThe most effective treatment for vasomotor menopausal symptoms; reduces hot flushes by 75–90%..

Transdermal gel + oral progestogen — daily

NICE NG23 (Menopause); BMS (British Menopause Society) guidance

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Period Pain (Mefenamic Acid / Naproxen)

Treats: Period pain

NSAIDs inhibit cyclo-oxygenase (COX), reducing endometrial prostaglandin production that causes uterine hypercontractility and ischaemia in primary dysmenorrhoea.

EfficacyReduces menstrual pain in ~70% of women with primary dysmenorrhoea, superior to placebo..

Oral capsule — as needed, from first day of period

NICE CKS Dysmenorrhoea; Cochrane NSAIDs for dysmenorrhoea

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Bacterial Vaginosis (Metronidazole / Clindamycin gel)

Treats: Bacterial vaginosis

BV results from overgrowth of Gardnerella and anaerobes replacing normal Lactobacillus flora.

EfficacyMetronidazole 7-day course cures ~80–90% of BV; clindamycin vaginal gel is an alternative..

Oral tablet or vaginal gel — 5–7 day course

NICE CKS Bacterial vaginosis; BASHH guidance

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Zidoval® (Metronidazole Vaginal Gel 0.75%)

Treats: Bacterial vaginosis

Zidoval® is a metronidazole 0.75% vaginal gel applied directly into the vagina.

EfficacyClinical cure rates of 80–90% at 5–7 days, comparable to oral metronidazole.

Vaginal gel — once daily for 5 days, applied at night

NICE CKS Bacterial vaginosis; BASHH guidance; BNF Metronidazole vaginal gel

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Chlamydia & STI Treatment (Azithromycin / Doxycycline)

Treats: Chlamydia / STI

Chlamydia trachomatis is treated with antibiotics targeting bacterial protein synthesis.

EfficacyCure rates >95% with appropriate therapy; test-of-cure recommended 3–4 weeks after treatment for pregnant patients..

Oral capsule — short course (1–7 days)

BASHH Chlamydia guideline; NICE CKS Chlamydia – uncomplicated

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Individual results vary. Treatment is prescribed only if clinically appropriate following assessment by a GPhC-registered prescriber.

General Health

NICE Clinical Evidence Pathways, UK

Prescription-grade therapies backed by NICE guidelines

70%

Migraine Relief

pain-free at 2hrs with triptans

94%

Acid Reflux

symptom resolution with PPIs

60%

IBS Response

symptom improvement rate

Following GPhC guidance for online pharmacies, you are assessed for a condition — not a specific medicine. A GPhC-registered prescriber reviews your assessment and chooses the treatment that is clinically appropriate and safe for you.

PPIs (Omeprazole / Lansoprazole)

Treats: Acid reflux / GORD

PPIs irreversibly block the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme system (proton pump) in gastric parietal cells, suppressing acid production by up to 90%.

EfficacyHeal 90% of erosive oesophagitis within 8 weeks.

Oral — once daily

NICE CG17; BSG Guidelines on GORD (2022)

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Triptans (Sumatriptan / Rizatriptan)

Treats: Migraine

Triptans selectively activate serotonin 5-HT1B/1D receptors on cranial blood vessels and trigeminal nerve terminals.

EfficacyPain-free at 2 hours in 32–57% of patients (vs 10–19% placebo).

Oral / nasal spray — as needed

NICE NG150; Cochrane Review on Triptans (2021)

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Hay Fever Tablets (Cetirizine / Fexofenadine)

Treats: Hay fever / allergic rhinitis

Second-generation H1-antihistamines competitively block peripheral histamine H1 receptors, reducing histamine-mediated effects (sneezing, itching, rhinorrhoea) without significant central sedation..

EfficacyReduces allergic rhinitis symptoms in 60–80%; non-sedating; rapid onset within 1–2 hours..

Oral tablet — once daily

BSACI Allergic Rhinitis Guidelines 2017; NICE CKS Allergic Rhinitis

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Steroid Nasal Spray (Mometasone / Fluticasone)

Treats: Hay fever / allergic rhinitis

Intranasal corticosteroids reduce local inflammatory cytokines and nasal mucosal oedema.

EfficacyReduces nasal symptoms by ~60–70%; takes 2–3 days for full effect; superior to antihistamines for congestion..

Nasal spray — once or twice daily

BSACI Allergic Rhinitis Guidelines 2017; NICE CKS Allergic Rhinitis

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Asthma Inhalers (Repeat Supply)

Treats: Asthma

Reliever inhalers (salbutamol) are short-acting β2-agonists that relax bronchial smooth muscle for rapid symptom relief.

EfficacySalbutamol relieves bronchospasm within 5 minutes.

Inhaler — as per your asthma action plan

SIGN 158 (British Guideline on Asthma); NICE NG80

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Cystitis / UTI Treatment (Trimethoprim / Nitrofurantoin)

Treats: Cystitis / UTI

Trimethoprim and nitrofurantoin are first-line antibiotics for uncomplicated lower urinary tract infection in women.

EfficacySymptom relief in 1–2 days; cure in 80–90% with appropriate first-line therapy..

Oral capsule — short course (3 days)

NICE NG109 (UTI lower); PHE UTI guidance; SIGN 88

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Cold Sore Treatment (Aciclovir)

Treats: Cold sores

Aciclovir is a nucleoside analogue activated by viral thymidine kinase.

EfficacyReduces healing time by ~1–2 days when started early; shortens duration of cold sores..

Oral tablet / cream — at first sign of cold sore

NICE CKS Herpes simplex (oral); BNF Aciclovir

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Travel Anti-Malaria (Malarone / Doxycycline)

Treats: Malaria prevention (travel)

Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone) inhibits parasite mitochondrial electron transport and folate synthesis; doxycycline inhibits parasite protein synthesis.

Efficacy~90–95% protection against Plasmodium falciparum when taken correctly, alongside mosquito avoidance..

Oral tablet — before, during and after travel

TravelHealthPro / NaTHNaC; WHO International Travel & Health; BNF

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Esomeprazole / Pantoprazole (Nexium® / Protium®)

Treats: Acid reflux / GORD

Esomeprazole (the S-enantiomer of omeprazole) and pantoprazole are proton pump inhibitors that irreversibly block the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme in gastric parietal cells, suppressing acid secretion by up to 90%.

EfficacyHeal 90–95% of erosive oesophagitis within 8 weeks.

Oral tablet — once daily

NICE CG17 (Dyspepsia & GORD); BSG Guidelines on GORD (2022); BNF PPIs

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

IBS Treatment (Mebeverine / Peppermint Oil)

Treats: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Mebeverine is a smooth-muscle relaxant acting directly on the gut to relieve colicky pain; peppermint oil relaxes intestinal smooth muscle via calcium-channel blockade.

EfficacyReduces IBS abdominal pain and cramping; most effective as part of first-line IBS management..

Oral capsule — as needed, before meals

NICE CG61 (IBS); NICE CKS Irritable bowel syndrome

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Aciclovir 400mg (Zovirax®/Generic)

Treats: Cold sores

Aciclovir is a synthetic purine nucleoside analogue.

EfficacyReduces cold sore healing time by ~1 day and pain duration by ~40% when started at prodrome.

Oral tablet — episodic, 3× daily for 1–5 days

NICE CKS Herpes simplex labialis; BNF Aciclovir; SPS Antivirals

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Valaciclovir 500mg (Generic)

Treats: Cold sores

Valaciclovir is the L-valyl ester prodrug of aciclovir.

EfficacyEquivalent efficacy to intravenous aciclovir for many indications; for recurrent cold sores, a single-day high-dose regimen reduces healing time by ~1–2 days when started at prodrome..

Oral tablet — episodic, 4 tablets 2× daily for 1 day

NICE CKS Herpes simplex labialis; BNF Valaciclovir; SPS Antivirals

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Valtrex® 500mg (Branded Valaciclovir)

Treats: Cold sores

Valtrex is the branded formulation of valaciclovir.

EfficacySame clinical efficacy as generic valaciclovir.

Oral tablet — episodic, 4 tablets 2× daily for 1 day

NICE CKS Herpes simplex labialis; BNF Valaciclovir (Valtrex); SPS Antivirals

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Genital Warts Treatment (Warticon® / Aldara®)

Treats: Genital warts

Podophyllotoxin (Warticon®/Condyline®) is a plant-derived antimitotic that arrests division of the HPV-infected wart cells, causing them to die.

EfficacyClears external genital warts in 50–80% with one or more courses; podophyllotoxin works fastest (3-day cycles)..

Cream / solution — applied twice daily for 3 days

BASHH 2015 National Guideline on Genital Warts; NICE CKS Genital warts

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Genital Herpes Treatment (Aciclovir / Valaciclovir)

Treats: Genital herpes

Aciclovir and valaciclovir (a prodrug converted to aciclovir) are activated by viral thymidine kinase in HSV-infected cells.

EfficacyEpisodic treatment shortens outbreak duration by ~2 days if started within 5 days of onset.

Oral tablet — episodic or suppressive

BASHH 2014 Genital Herpes Guideline; NICE CKS Herpes simplex — genital

Get started

Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Arthritis Pain Relief (Naproxen / Ibuprofen)

Treats: Arthritis / joint pain

NSAIDs inhibit cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1/COX-2), reducing prostaglandin production that drives joint inflammation, pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

EfficacyReduces joint pain, stiffness and inflammation by 40–60%; improvement within hours to days..

Oral tablet — once or twice daily with food

NICE NG226 (Osteoarthritis); NICE NG100 (Rheumatoid arthritis); NICE CKS Osteoarthritis

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Flu Treatment (Oseltamivir / Tamiflu®)

Treats: Flu (influenza)

Oseltamivir inhibits influenza neuraminidase, preventing newly formed virus particles from being released from infected cells.

EfficacyShortens flu duration by ~1–1.5 days and reduces complications when started within 48h.

Oral capsule — twice daily for 5 days

NICE TA168 (Oseltamivir); NICE CKS Influenza; PHE/UKHSA flu treatment guidance

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Vitamins (Perfectil® Hair/Skin/Nails)

Treats: Hair, skin & nail support

Perfectil® provides a blend of biotin, selenium, zinc and B-vitamins that support the maintenance of normal hair, skin and nails.

EfficacySupports normal hair, skin and nail condition where dietary intake may be inadequate.

Oral tablet — once daily

NHS Vitamins & Minerals; BNF; Perfectil® product information

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Numbing Cream (EMLA®)

Treats: Numbing for needle / skin procedures

EMLA® cream combines lidocaine 2.5% and prilocaine 2.5%.

EfficacyProduces effective surface anaesthesia within 30–60 minutes; peak effect at 60 minutes, lasting 1–2 hours after removal..

Cream — applied 30–60 mins before procedure

BNF Lidocaine + Prilocaine (topical); MHRA topical anaesthetic guidance

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Sleep Aid (Nytol® / Diphenhydramine)

Treats: Short-term insomnia

Diphenhydramine is a first-generation H1-antihistamine that crosses the blood-brain barrier, producing central sedation by blocking histamine H1 receptors and antagonising muscarinic receptors.

EfficacyReduces sleep-onset time for short-term (transient) insomnia; effect may reduce after 2 weeks of continuous use (tolerance)..

Oral tablet — 20–30 minutes before bedtime

NICE CKS Insomnia; BNF Diphenhydramine; NHS sleep guidance

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Threadworm Treatment (Ovex® / Mebendazole)

Treats: Threadworm

Mebendazole inhibits glucose uptake by the threadworm (Enterobius vermicularis), depleting its energy stores and preventing it from reproducing.

EfficacyCures threadworm in 90–95% with one dose; a repeat dose at 2 weeks prevents re-infestation from remaining eggs..

Oral tablet or suspension — single dose

NICE CKS Threadworm; BNF Mebendazole

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Jet Lag (Circadin® / Melatonin)

Treats: Jet lag

Melatonin is the hormone that regulates the circadian sleep-wake cycle.

EfficacyReduces jet-lag symptoms when taken at the local bedtime for the destination time zone, typically for 3–5 days.

Oral tablet — once daily at local bedtime

NICE CKS Jet lag; BNF Melatonin; travel medicine guidance

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Zolmitriptan (Generic / Zomig®)

Treats: Migraine

Zolmitriptan is a second-generation triptan that activates serotonin 5-HT1B/1D receptors on cranial blood vessels and trigeminal nerve terminals, causing vasoconstriction and inhibiting neuropeptide release.

EfficacyPain-free at 2 hours in 35–40% (vs ~20% placebo).

Oral tablet / orodispersible melt — as needed

NICE NG150; Cochrane Review on Triptans (2021)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Imigran® (Branded Sumatriptan)

Treats: Migraine

Imigran® is the branded formulation of sumatriptan, the original triptan.

EfficacyPain-free at 2 hours in 32–50% (vs 10–19% placebo).

Oral tablet — as needed

NICE NG150; Cochrane Review on Triptans (2021)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Maxalt® / Maxalt Melt® (Branded Rizatriptan)

Treats: Migraine

Maxalt® (rizatriptan) is a fast-acting triptan with one of the quickest onsets in the class.

EfficacyPain-free at 2 hours in up to 42%.

Oral tablet / orodispersible melt — as needed

NICE NG150; Cochrane Review on Triptans (2021)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Imigran® Nasal Spray (Sumatriptan 20mg)

Treats: Migraine

Sumatriptan delivered as a nasal spray avoids the gut and acts within 15–30 minutes — faster than oral tablets.

EfficacyRelief within 15–30 minutes; pain-free at 2 hours in up to 40%.

Nasal spray — as needed

NICE NG150; Cochrane Review on Triptans (2021)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Zomig® Nasal Spray (Zolmitriptan 5mg)

Treats: Migraine

Zolmitriptan nasal spray delivers the second-generation triptan through the nasal mucosa for rapid absorption, providing fast relief without the need to swallow.

EfficacyRelief within 15–30 minutes; useful when nausea or vomiting make oral treatment impractical..

Nasal spray — as needed

NICE NG150; Cochrane Review on Triptans (2021)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Terbinafine 250mg

Treats: Fungal nail infection

Terbinafine inhibits squalene epoxidase, an enzyme in the fungal sterol biosynthesis pathway.

EfficacyMycological cure rate 70–80% for dermatophyte nail infections.

Oral tablet — once daily (6–12 weeks)

NICE CKS Onychomycosis (2023); Cochrane Antifungals Review (2020)

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Individual results vary. Prescribed only if clinically appropriate.

Individual results vary. Treatment is prescribed only if clinically appropriate following assessment by a GPhC-registered prescriber.