The short answer: go to your pharmacy’s website or app, choose Refill, and enter the prescription (Rx) number from your bottle’s label. Some pharmacies let you do this as a guest. CVS’s Rapid Refill, for example, needs only your store and prescription numbers for in-store pickup (CVS). Then pick a pickup time or delivery. Only use pharmacies that require a prescription and are licensed in your state (FDA).
What you need
- Your prescription bottle or box. The label shows the Rx number and the pharmacy’s store details.
- Your pharmacy’s official website or app. Type the address yourself or use the app store, rather than clicking an ad.
- Your insurance or Medicare drug plan card if it’s a new pharmacy (Medicare.gov).
Option 1: Quick refill without an account
- Open your pharmacy’s website and look for Refill, Refill by Rx number or Express Refill.
- Type the Rx number from the label (and the store number, if asked).
- Choose the pickup store and time.
- Submit and wait for the “ready” text, email or call.
At CVS this is called Rapid Refill and works for in-store pickup only (CVS).
Option 2: Use the pharmacy app
- Download your pharmacy’s official app.
- Tap the refill option and scan the barcode on your label with the phone’s camera, then confirm the prescription and store (CVS).
- Choose pickup or delivery.
New to scanning? See how to scan a code with your phone.
Option 3: Create an account (saves time later)
With an account, you can see every prescription in one place, tick the ones you need and refill them together. Many pharmacies also offer automatic refills and text reminders. CVS calls its version ReadyFill (CVS). Use a strong, unique password. See how to create a safe password.
If you have Medicare drug coverage
- Use in-network pharmacies. Some plans only cover drugs filled at their network pharmacies, and “preferred” ones may cost you less (Medicare.gov).
- Ask about mail-order. Some plans mail up to a 3-month supply and may offer automatic refills (Medicare.gov).
- Ask for 2- or 3-month supplies of drugs you take regularly (Medicare.gov).
- Avoid out-of-network pharmacies, where you’ll probably pay full cost (Medicare.gov).
How to tell an online pharmacy is safe
A legitimate online pharmacy (FDA):
- Is listed in your state board of pharmacy license database. If it isn’t listed, don’t use it.
- Requires a doctor’s prescription.
- Gives a physical U.S. address and phone number.
- Has a licensed pharmacist to answer your questions.
Warning signs include no prescription needed, prices that seem too good to be true, and medicine that looks different from what you usually get (FDA).
When to call instead
- The website says no refills remain or the prescription has expired. The pharmacy can contact your doctor.
- You need it today and the site shows a later time.
- Your medicine looks different from usual. Ask the pharmacist before taking it.
Questions people ask about refilling prescriptions online
Do I need an account to refill online?
Not always. CVS, for example, offers Rapid Refill for in-store pickup without an account; you just need your store and prescription numbers from the label (CVS). An account lets you see all your prescriptions and set up reminders or home delivery.
Why can’t I tick the box next to my prescription?
Usually because it’s too soon to refill, there are no refills left, or the prescription has expired or was transferred. At CVS, the checkbox is grayed out until it’s time to fill (CVS). Call the pharmacy or ask your doctor for a new prescription.
Can I get a 3-month supply mailed to me with Medicare?
Some Medicare drug plans offer mail-order with up to a 3-month supply sent to your home, and may offer automatic refills (Medicare.gov). Contact your plan to ask (Medicare.gov).
Is it safe to buy from a cheap online pharmacy I found in an ad?
Be very careful. The FDA warns that many unsafe online pharmacies sell deeply discounted drugs without requiring a prescription, and the medicines can be fake or unsafe (FDA). Check the pharmacy’s license with your state board of pharmacy first (FDA).
What should I bring when I pick up?
For Medicare drug coverage, bring a photo ID and your drug plan card; your Medicare card is also good to have (Medicare.gov).
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