Top 10 Pills You Can Buy in the UK Without a Prescription in 2025
In 2025, the UK continues to offer a wide range of over-the-counter (OTC) medications that do not require a prescription. Whether you’re dealing with a headache, allergies, indigestion, or mild anxiety, there are legally approved, pharmacist-checked pills you can buy safely and conveniently — even online.
This guide covers the top 10 most popular, effective, and legally available pills you can purchase without a prescription in the UK. These medications are accessible via trusted pharmacies like UK Med Store and meet all MHRA safety and regulatory standards.
1. Paracetamol (500mg)
Use: Pain relief, fever reduction
Available As: Tablets, capsules, soluble form
Why It’s Popular: Paracetamol is a household essential for treating common conditions like headaches, period pain, and minor injuries. It’s well-tolerated and widely available in both branded and generic versions.
2. Ibuprofen (200–400mg)
Use: Inflammation, muscular pain, menstrual cramps
Available As: Tablets, gel, liquid capsules
Ibuprofen is a go-to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps reduce inflammation and relieve moderate pain. While stronger doses require a prescription, standard 200–400mg doses are OTC.
3. Loratadine (Antihistamine)
Use: Hay fever, allergies, skin rashes
Available As: 10mg tablets, oral suspension
Loratadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine that provides 24-hour allergy relief. Ideal for seasonal allergy sufferers, it is available without a prescription from both physical and online UK pharmacies.
4. Co-Codamol (8/500mg – Low Strength)
Use: Moderate pain, migraines, toothache
Available As: Combination tablets (codeine + paracetamol)
This low-dose version of co-codamol (8mg codeine/500mg paracetamol) is available over the counter under a pharmacist’s supervision. It is a stronger option than paracetamol alone, but should not be used for more than 3 days continuously due to the risk of dependency.
5. Diphenhydramine (Nytol)
Use: Short-term insomnia, sleep support
Available As: Sleep aids, 25–50mg capsules
Diphenhydramine is commonly marketed under brands like Nytol and offers effective short-term relief for sleeplessness. It is sedative in nature and can be purchased without a prescription in controlled doses.
6. Omeprazole (10mg – Pharmacy Strength)
Use: Heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion
Available As: Gastro-resistant capsules
The 10mg version of omeprazole is now available OTC for relief from persistent heartburn or indigestion. For stronger doses, a prescription is required.
7. Loperamide (Imodium)
Use: Diarrhoea relief
Available As: Capsules, tablets
Loperamide helps slow gut movement, providing quick and effective relief from diarrhoea. It’s a staple in most travel kits and is easily available without a prescription.
8. Hydrocortisone Cream (1%)
Use: Skin irritation, eczema, insect bites
Available As: Topical cream
While technically not a “pill”, hydrocortisone 1% is a widely used OTC steroid cream that treats a variety of skin conditions and allergic reactions. It’s available without prescription when used for up to 7 days.
9. Gaviscon Double Action Tablets
Use: Heartburn, acid reflux
Available As: Chewable tablets, liquid
These chewable antacid tablets combine an acid neutraliser with an alginate barrier to soothe the stomach lining. They are readily available and fast-acting.
10. Levocetirizine (Xyzal or Generic)
Use: Allergic rhinitis, hives, itchy skin
Available As: 5mg tablets
Levocetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that is more potent than loratadine and cetirizine, with minimal drowsiness. It’s available in low-dose OTC format for allergic conditions.
Final Thoughts: Buying OTC Medications Safely in the UK
In 2025, UK consumers have more control and convenience than ever when it comes to managing mild-to-moderate health conditions without needing a GP prescription. Trusted platforms like UK Med Store provide pharmacist-reviewed medications, discreet packaging, and MHRA-compliant services for your peace of mind.
Before buying any OTC medication:
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Always read the label and instructions
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Do not exceed the recommended dosage
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Speak with a pharmacist if unsure or if you have an ongoing condition