How many repeats can you get on an Australian prescription?

Most standard PBS medications for chronic conditions allow up to 5 repeats — 6 dispensings in total including the original. Controlled drugs often have no repeats. Antibiotics and short courses typically have none either. Your doctor decides the number based on your condition and how frequently they want to review you.

Do repeat prescriptions expire in Australia?

Yes. Most PBS prescriptions expire 12 months from the date they were written. Any unused repeats expire at the same time, regardless of when the medication was first dispensed.

Can I use a repeat at any pharmacy?

Yes. Australian eScript tokens can be dispensed at any pharmacy — you are not locked to where the original was filled.

What if I lose my repeat token?

Contact your prescriber or the dispensing pharmacy — they can reissue the eScript token. Storing tokens in MediRemind as they arrive means you will never need to track one down.

How do I know when my script expires?

The expiry date appears on your eScript token. MediRemind displays it alongside the remaining repeat count so you always know when to book a new prescription.

Can I get all my repeats dispensed at once?

For PBS medications, generally no — the 20-day dispensing rule applies. For private prescriptions it is at the pharmacist's discretion, though most dispense one repeat at a time.

How is a repeat prescription different from a new prescription?

A repeat is an authorised additional supply under the same prescription — your doctor does not need to see you again. A new prescription requires a new consultation. When your repeats run out or the 12-month expiry passes, you need a new prescription, which usually means a GP appointment.

Repeat Prescriptions Australia: How They Work & How to Track Them

Everything about repeat prescriptions in Australia — how many you get, when they expire, how eScripts changed the system, and the easiest way to track them.

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