Expired medical prescriptions can still be used in France

Pharmacists in France have been authorised to issue drugs on repeat prescriptions that have expired during the second coronavirus lockdown.

Following a similar decision made during the first confinement period back in Spring, the government has permitted the filling of repeat medications on expired prescriptions for a limited period - depending on the treatment - to reduce the need for visits to the doctor.

Only repeat prescriptions will be filled, and the pharmacist will advise the GP when such a prescription is re-filled.

For chronic disease, the maximum period allowed is one month; for contraceptive pill, the period is three months; and for opioid substitution treatments the limit is 28 days - with the approval of the prescribing doctor.

Under certain conditions, prescribed nursing care may also continue under an expired order.