Cystitis Information

This service is available to women over the age of 16 who have previously been diagnosed with cystitis by a healthcare professional and have responded well to antibiotic treatment.

Antibiotics can be ordered for same day in pharmacy collection (if you are currently experiencing cystitis symptoms) or it can be ordered in advance and stored safely for rapid treatment of future cystitis.

If you are a male or under 16 or experiencing cystitis like symptoms for the first time, it is vital that you see your GP for assessment and treatment.

If you have received antibiotic treatment for cystitis recently and your symptoms have not improved, please contact your GP for further assessment.
If you are allergic to Trimethoprim or any other Sulphonamides, unfortunately, you will not be able to apply for this service

What is cystitis?

Cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder due to an infection or irritation. Anyone can get cystitis, but it's most common in women. Cystitis can be painful, particularly when you pass urine, but it usually clears up within a few days.

Symptoms of cystitis can include:

•  A stinging or burning sensation when you pass urine
• The need to urinate more often than you usually do
• Feeling the need to urinate urgently, even if you pass very little or no urine
• Urine that is cloudy or dark coloured and may have a strong smell
• Blood in your urine

How can I relieve the symptoms of cystitis?

To reduce discomfort, take the painkiller that you would take for a headache.

Make your urine less acidic by drinking a glass of water with half a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda dissolved in it. Products that contain sodium bicarbonate or potassium citrate have the same effect and are available from your pharmacist. Always ask your pharmacist for advice and read the patient information that comes with your medicine. Drinking lots of water to help flush out the infection is recommended. Antibiotics can also help treat the problem and relieve the symptoms.

Can I order my cystitis treatment for collection on the same day?

Yes, if you are suffering from symptoms of cystitis and would like to receive your treatment on the same day that you order it, please tick the in-pharmacy collection option on the delivery page of your order.

Please note – this service may not be available outside normal working hours of Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm. If you order outside of these times, you may need to wait until the next working day to collect your medication.