Covid-19 PCR Self Test Kit

The COVID PCR test kit from London Medical Laboratory (LML) is a home self-swab collection kit that allows you to take your own sample and send it to an accredited laboratory for accurate PCR analysis. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing is the laboratory method used to detect the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for COVID-19. It is widely recognised as offering a high degree of accuracy for coronavirus detection compared to rapid lateral flow tests. No prescription is required to purchase this kit. It can be ordered directly from Pharmacy Planet and used at home at a time that suits you.

The Covid-19 PCR Self-Test Kit is an in vitro diagnostic medical device supplied by London Medical Laboratory (LML), a UKAS-accredited laboratory based in London. The kit contains everything you need to collect your own nasal or throat swab sample at home and return it to the laboratory for PCR analysis. Results are reported by the laboratory directly to you, typically by email.

PCR testing works by detecting the RNA of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, making it capable of identifying active coronavirus infection. This differs from antibody tests, which detect a past immune response rather than an active infection.

This kit is suitable for adults and children who wish to test for active COVID-19 infection. It may be used for personal health monitoring, where a confirmed PCR result is required for travel purposes, or where an individual wants greater confidence in their result than a rapid lateral flow test provides.

No prescription or clinical consultation is required to purchase this kit. It is available directly from Pharmacy Planet.

PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is a laboratory technique that amplifies tiny amounts of genetic material from a sample so that even very low levels of viral RNA can be detected. When you return your swab to the LML laboratory, scientists extract any RNA present in your sample and apply the PCR process to determine whether SARS-CoV-2 genetic material is present.

The process involves the following steps. First, the RNA in your sample is converted to DNA using an enzyme called reverse transcriptase. The resulting DNA is then amplified through repeated heating and cooling cycles, which multiply the target genetic sequences. If the virus is present, the amplified sequences are detected, and the result is reported as positive. If no viral RNA is detected, the result is reported as negative.

Because PCR testing amplifies genetic material directly from the sample rather than relying on a detectable level of viral protein (as lateral flow tests do), it can detect lower concentrations of the virus. This makes it particularly useful in the early stages of infection, when viral load may still be built, and for confirming equivocal or inconclusive lateral flow results.

• Read the full instructions supplied in the kit before beginning your sample collection. Follow them carefully to ensure your sample is valid for testing.
• Complete the name label supplied in the kit. Write your full name, date of birth, and any other requested details clearly using a ballpoint pen.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after collecting your sample.
• Collect your swab sample as directed in the instructions. This typically involves a nasal swab from both nostrils, a throat swab, or a combined nasal and throat swab. Follow the specific guidance for the swab type included in your kit.
• Insert the swab into the sample collection tube provided and seal it securely according to the instructions.
• Place the sealed sample tube in the protective bag supplied in the kit.
• Package your sample in the pre-addressed return envelope or box as directed and send it to the LML laboratory promptly. Do not delay sending your sample after collection.
• Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum for at least 30 minutes before taking a throat or nasal swab, as these activities can affect the quality of the sample.
• Store your kit at room temperature and away from direct sunlight before using it.
• Check the expiry date on the kit before using it. Do not use a kit that has passed its expiry date.

LML Self Swab Kit — Single Use

The Covid-19 PCR Self-Test Kit from London Medical Laboratory contains:

• One self-collection swab
• One sample collection tube with transport medium
• One name label for patient identification
• Sample collection instruction leaflet
• Pre-addressed return packaging for sending the sample to the LML laboratory

The kit is designed for single use only. Each kit provides one individual test. Results are reported by LML directly to the patient, typically by email, within the laboratory’s stated turnaround time. Please refer to the LML website or the documentation included in your kit for current turnaround time information, as this may vary.

As with all diagnostic tests, there are important limitations to be aware of when using the Covid-19 PCR Self-Test Kit.

Potential for false negative results: A negative result does not completely rule out COVID-19 infection. False negative results can occur if the sample was collected incorrectly, if the sample was taken very early in the course of infection before viral levels were detectable, or if the sample was degraded during transit. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and receive a negative PCR result, consider repeating the test or seeking further medical advice.

Potential for false positive results: False positive results are less common with PCR testing but can occur. If you receive a positive result and have no symptoms or believe the result may be incorrect, contact the laboratory or seek medical advice.

Correct sample collection is essential: The accuracy of a PCR test depends on the quality of the sample collected. Following the instructions carefully is important. A poorly collected or contaminated sample may produce an unreliable result.

This test detects active infection only: This kit tests for active SARS-CoV-2 infection. It does not test past infection or measure immune response. It does not test other respiratory viruses.

If you receive a positive result, follow current UK health guidance on self-isolation and inform close contacts where appropriate. If you are unwell and your symptoms are worsening, seek medical advice from your GP or NHS 111.

The LML Covid-19 PCR Self-Test Kit is suitable for adults and children who need to test for active COVID-19 infection.

This kit is not suitable for:

• Individuals who are unable to self-collect a swab sample safely or accurately, for example, very young children, without assistance from a parent or carer.
• Use as a supervised or witnessed test where official accreditation of the testing process is required. If you need a supervised test for official purposes, check the specific requirements of the organisation or country requesting the test, as this kit is a self-collected sample.

Points to note:

• If you are purchasing this kit for travel purposes, check out the specific COVID testing requirements of your destination and airline before ordering. Requirements can change, and the type of test accepted (PCR, supervised, unsupervised, turnaround time) varies by country and by purpose of travel.
• This kit is for testing purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis in the clinical sense. If you are concerned about your health, seek medical advice independently.

The Covid-19 PCR Self-Test Kit is a non-prescription product. No consultation or prescription is required. It is available directly from Pharmacy Planet for convenient home delivery. Once you receive your kit, follow the sample collection instructions and return your sample to LML using the pre-addressed packaging provided.

Store the kit at room temperature (between 15°C and 30°C), away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not freeze the kit or the collection tube. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

Once your sample has been collected, send it to the laboratory as promptly as possible. Delays in transit may affect sample quality and could impact the reliability of your result.

Dispose of used swabs and collection materials as clinical waste where possible or follow the disposal guidance included in the kit instructions.

Both the PCR Self Test Kit and the Rapid Test are used to detect active SARS-CoV-2 infection, but they work in different ways and suit different situations. The PCR kit requires a sample to be sent to an accredited laboratory, while the rapid test delivers a result at home within minutes. The table below compares the two Covid-19 test kits available through Pharmacy Planet.

Important: This comparison is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If you are unwell or concerned about your result, seek advice from your GP or NHS 111.

Pharmacy Planet is a GPhC-registered online pharmacy offering a range of health, diagnostic, and prescription products through a safe, regulated, and discreet service. Our team is committed to making health testing accessible and straightforward. All diagnostic kits sold through Pharmacy Planet are sourced from accredited suppliers and laboratories.

If you have questions about this kit, your results, or your wider health needs, our pharmacy team is available to assist. For medical advice following a positive result, contact your GP or NHS 111.

• London Medical Laboratory (LML). Self-Swab Kit — Instructions for Use and Laboratory Information. https://www.londonmedicallaboratory.co.uk. Accessed June 2026.
• NHS. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Testing. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing/. Accessed June 2026.
• UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). COVID-19: Guidance on Testing. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/covid-19-testing. Accessed June 2026.
• MHRA. In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices — Guidance. https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/in-vitro-diagnostic-medical-devices. Accessed June 2026.