Prescription Refills vs. Renewals
What to Know Before You Run Out
6/17/2025
Olivia Bishop, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident
Prescription labels
include more than just your name and dosage. They also list key details that
can affect when and how you get your next supply of medication. One of the most
common sources of confusion is the difference between a refill and a renewal.
A refill means your
provider has already given the pharmacy permission to dispense more of the
medication, often for a set number of fills. Once those run out, a renewal is
needed, which means your provider needs to issue a new prescription before the
pharmacy can fill it again.
“Patients are
sometimes surprised to learn they’re out of refills when they try to reorder a
medication,” said Olivia Bishop, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident. “It’s a good idea
to check how many refills you have left before running low so you have time to
follow up if needed.”
It’s also important
to check the expiration date printed on the label.
“The expiration date
isn’t just a formality. It helps ensure the medication is still working as
intended,” Bishop said. “After that point, its effectiveness may start to
decline.”
Some labels also
include a description of the pill’s shape, size, or color. That can be helpful
if your medication looks different than usual, which can happen if the pharmacy
fills it with a different manufacturer’s version.
“If something looks
unfamiliar or doesn’t match what you’ve had before, contact your pharmacist or
provider,” Bishop said. “We want patients to feel confident and safe when
taking their medications.”
Aspirus Health
encourages patients to take a quick look at their prescription labels each time
they pick up a medication. Staying aware of details like refill status and
expiration dates can help prevent delays and make sure your care stays on
track.
Back to all Posts