How the cap works
Once your household has paid €80 in a calendar month for approved prescribed medicines, the pharmacy charges nothing more for the rest of that month. The count starts again on the 1st.
| Monthly prescriptions | What you pay |
|---|---|
| €45 | €45 |
| €80 | €80 |
| €140 | €80 - the scheme covers €60 |
Use one pharmacy where you can
The cap is easiest to apply when the household's prescriptions go through the same pharmacy each month.
Who qualifies
Anyone ordinarily resident in Ireland without a full medical card. Register the household together: your spouse or partner, children under 18, and children under 23 in full-time education.
How to register
Register free with the HSE online or with the paper form. You'll get a card for each person; show it at the pharmacy.
Tracking your spend with ViscaCare
In Vault → Receipts, prescription receipts for the current month are totalled against the €80 cap. When the household passes €60, you'll see a reminder about the scheme.
Good to know
ViscaCare shows totals from the receipts you save. It doesn't register you or contact the HSE for you.
Common questions
How much is the Drugs Payment Scheme cap?
In 2026 a registered individual or family pays no more than €80 a month for approved prescribed medicines and certain appliances.
Who can join the Drugs Payment Scheme?
Anyone ordinarily resident in Ireland who does not hold a full medical card. A household can register together, including a spouse or partner, children under 18, and children under 23 in full-time education.
Does it cost anything to register?
No. Registration is free and done through the HSE, online or by form.
Can I still claim tax relief on prescriptions?
Yes. Prescription costs you pay up to the cap usually count as qualifying health expenses for 20% tax relief.
Where these figures come from
Charges and thresholds change. We check these figures regularly, but always confirm the current rate with the official source before you rely on it. This page explains entitlements, costs and process - it is not medical advice.
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