Residents in Newham are being urged to have their say over plans to stop GPs in the borough from prescribing over-the counter medications.

The proposals by health chiefs would see NHS Newham Clinical Commissioning Group ban medics from prescribing 35 medications such as paracetamol, cough medicines, vitamins, minerals and probiotics.

Last year, the NHS spent nearly £570m on prescriptions for over the counter medications which can be bought from pharmacies or supermarkets.

Dr Prakash Chandra, chair of Newham CCG, said: “This consultation gives people the opportunity to have their say on the prescribing of over the counter medicines for 35 minor and/or self-limiting conditions.

“National guidance on prescribing over the counter items for these conditions could save the NHS money and put an end to regional variations in what is available on prescription and allow the money saved to be spent for the treatment of serious conditions like cancer . In many cases, self-care can be more effective and convenient than visiting the GP and can free up valuable GP time.”

To take part in the online consultation visit bit.ly/2DfLrRi.