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How to Get a Prescription Online in Australia
Your guide to getting legitimate prescriptions through telehealth.
4 min read
Updated 23 January 2026
Doctor Reviewed
AHPRA Verified
Medical Information Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. All treatment decisions are made by an AHPRA-registered doctor after reviewing your individual circumstances.
Getting a prescription online in Australia is safe, legal, and convenient when done through a legitimate telehealth service. An AHPRA-registered doctor can assess your needs and send an electronic prescription (eScript) directly to your phone — ready to use at any pharmacy.
Key Takeaways
- Online prescriptions are issued by AHPRA-registered doctors after proper assessment
- eScripts are sent via SMS and can be used at any pharmacy in Australia
- Most common medications can be prescribed online, with some exceptions
How Online Prescriptions Work
Online prescriptions follow the same clinical process as in-person consultations. A doctor reviews your medical history, current symptoms or needs, and any relevant information before making a prescribing decision. If a prescription is appropriate, the doctor sends it as an eScript — delivered via SMS to your phone.
What Can Be Prescribed Online?
- Blood pressure and cholesterol medications (ongoing treatment)
- Diabetes medications (ongoing treatment)
- Asthma and allergy medications
- Contraceptives
- Antibiotics for diagnosed infections
- Skin treatments
- Some mental health medications
- Acid reflux and digestive medications
What Can't Be Prescribed Online?
- Schedule 8 controlled drugs (strong painkillers, ADHD medications)
- Medications requiring physical examination first
- Treatments needing blood tests or monitoring
- Some medications for new, undiagnosed conditions
Telehealth prescribing rules vary by state and medication. A responsible service will tell you if your medication can't be prescribed online.
How InstantMed Helps
InstantMed connects you with AHPRA-registered doctors who can assess your prescription needs. For ongoing medications you've been taking, the process is straightforward. You provide your medication history, a doctor reviews your request, and if appropriate, sends an eScript to your phone.
When to See a Doctor In Person
- New medications for undiagnosed conditions
- Controlled or restricted medications
- When physical examination is needed
- Complex medication changes or interactions
- When your regular GP's oversight is important
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to get a prescription online in Australia?
Yes. Telehealth prescribing by AHPRA-registered doctors is legal in Australia. Prescriptions are issued following the same clinical standards as in-person consultations.
How do I use an eScript at the pharmacy?
You'll receive an SMS with a QR code. Show this to the pharmacist at any pharmacy in Australia. They scan the code and dispense your medication.
Can I get antibiotics prescribed online?
Yes, if clinically appropriate. A doctor will assess your symptoms and only prescribe antibiotics if there's evidence of bacterial infection.
What if the doctor doesn't approve my prescription?
Doctors only prescribe when clinically appropriate. If your request isn't suitable for telehealth prescribing, they'll explain why and recommend next steps.
Can I get my regular medications prescribed online?
For most ongoing medications, yes. You'll need to provide details of your current treatment. Some medications require periodic in-person reviews.
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