If you pay for prescriptions in Ireland and you do not have a medical card, the Drug Payment Scheme is one of the most useful things you can sign up for. It puts a firm monthly limit on what your household spends on approved medicines, and registering is free. Here is how it works in plain English.
for approved prescription medicines under the Drug Payment Scheme in 2026
What is the Drug Payment Scheme?
The Drug Payment Scheme, or DPS, is a Health Service Executive scheme that caps how much any individual or family pays for approved prescribed medicines in a single calendar month. In 2026 that cap is €80 a month. Once your household has spent €80 on approved medicines in a month, the HSE covers the rest for that month, so you never pay more than the cap.
How it works
The cap is per household, not per person. That makes it especially valuable for families, or anyone managing several long term prescriptions at once.
Who can use it?
The scheme is not means tested. It is open to anyone ordinarily resident in Ireland who does not already have a medical card. If you do have a medical card, you are covered separately and usually do not need the DPS.
What is covered, and what is not
Covered
- Prescription medicines on the HSE reimbursement list
- Certain aids and appliances prescribed for use at home
- Medicines for your whole household combined
Not covered
- Over the counter medicines bought without a prescription
- Private prescriptions, such as Mounjaro or Ozempic for weight loss
- Anything not on the HSE reimbursement list
This is worth knowing if you are considering weight loss injections. Because they are supplied on a private prescription, they do not count toward your €80 cap. Our guide to Mounjaro costs in Ireland explains that side of things.
How to register
Registering is free and straightforward. You can do it through your local HSE office or, more easily, ask us in the pharmacy. Bring your PPS number and photo ID, and we will point you through the form. Once you are registered, just present your DPS card or details when you collect your prescriptions.
We can sign you up in minutes
Pop in or get in touch and our team will help you register for the Drug Payment Scheme and make sure you never overpay for your prescriptions.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Drug Payment Scheme cap in 2026?
€80 per household per calendar month for approved prescription medicines. Once you reach it, the HSE covers the rest that month.
Is the Drug Payment Scheme means tested?
No. It is open to everyone ordinarily resident in Ireland who does not have a medical card, regardless of income.
Does the scheme cover weight loss injections like Mounjaro?
No. Mounjaro and Ozempic for weight loss are private prescriptions, so they do not count toward the €80 cap.
How do I register?
Registration is free. Ask us in the pharmacy or contact your local HSE office. You will need your PPS number and photo ID.
Sources
- Drugs Payment Scheme, official overview and threshold. Citizens Information.
- Health Service Executive, Drugs Payment Scheme. HSE.
This article is general information for people in Ireland and is correct to the best of our knowledge for 2026. Scheme rules and thresholds can change, so check the official HSE guidance or ask our pharmacy team for the current details.
