Why Can't My Prescription Medicine Be Dispatched Yet?
It usually comes down to one simple step — here's what's happening
Quick Answer
- Orders containing Prescription Only Medicines (POM-V) won't be dispatched until a valid prescription has been received and verified
- If your order has both prescription and non-prescription items, everything ships together once approved
- Prescription checking usually takes 1–2 working days
- Uploading your prescription as soon as you order helps avoid delays
Common Reasons for a Delay
01 Prescription not yet received Most common
If we haven't received your prescription yet, your prescription items will stay on hold until it arrives and is checked.
02 Still being checked
Prescription checking usually takes 1–2 working days. If yours has only just arrived, it may simply still be in this stage.
03 Mixed order, waiting together
If your order includes both prescription and non-prescription products, the whole order is shipped together once the prescription has been approved, rather than sending part of it separately.
04 A detail needs clarifying
If something on the prescription is unclear, our team will contact you before your order can move forward.
How to Avoid This Next Time
The quickest way to avoid a delay is to upload your prescription as soon as you place your order, with your order number included so it can be matched straight away.
If You Haven't Uploaded Yet
- Go to the Upload Prescription page and submit your prescription with your order number
- If your upload won't go through, email it to info@petmeddirect.co.uk instead
- If you are unsure whether your prescription has reached us, please contact Pet Med Direct with your order number and we will help
How Pet Med Direct Can Help
Once your prescription is checked and approved, your order is dispensed and dispatched using a tracked courier service, with a tracking link sent to you by email.
Some treatments require a valid veterinary prescription. Pet Med Direct can only supply prescription medicines after the prescription has been checked. Always follow your vet's advice and the directions on the medicine label.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my non-prescription items be sent separately?
If your order has both prescription and non-prescription items, they're shipped together once the prescription has been approved, rather than sent in two parcels.
I uploaded my prescription — why is my order still showing as on hold?
It may still be within the usual 1–2 working day checking window. If it's been longer than this, please contact Pet Med Direct with your order number and we will help.
Can I speed this up by calling instead?
The quickest way to get a prescription checked is to make sure it's been uploaded or emailed to us clearly, with your order number included.
What happens once everything is approved?
Your order is dispensed and dispatched using a tracked courier, and you'll receive a tracking link by email.

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Shop Pet Med DirectIf you are concerned with your pet’s health, please consult a qualified veterinarian.
