Schools occasionally ask parents to obtain a GP prescription for everyday over the counter (OTC) products such as lip balm, moisturiser, emollients, antihistamines or simple analgesia. These requests can cause unnecessary appointments in general practice and risk implying a clinical need where none exists.
GPs are not required to prescribe routine OTC items for children unless there is a clear medical indication. Routine OTC items can be provided by parents and kept in school in line with the school’s medicines policy.
National guidance (BMA and NHS England) states that:
- GPs should not be asked to provide prescriptions or letters solely to meet school administrative requirements.
- Schools should manage minor ailments and the use of routine OTC products through their own policies without involving general practice.
- A GP letter is only appropriate where there is a diagnosed medical condition requiring specific medication or a reasonable adjustment.
Where requests arise, practices may direct parents or schools to the SSLMCs template letter below, which explains the position and helps reset expectations.