New medicine service
The new medicine service is offered by most pharmacies in England. The purpose of the service is to support people that are starting a new medicine. However, it only applies to certain classes of medications. The service involves speaking with your pharmacist about your new medicine over the initial weeks or starting new medication. This is because problems are most likely to occur within the first month of starting new medication.
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Who is it for?
The new medicine service is for people that have been prescribed a new medicine for any of the following conditions:
- asthma
- COPD
- diabetes
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- high cholesterol
- epilepsy
- Parkinson's disease
- urinary incontinence
- heart failure and some cardiovascular conditions
How do I participate in the new medicine service?
If you have been prescribed a new medicine from one of the categories above, your pharmacist will ask you if you would like to participate in the new medicine service. If the new medicine service is not offered to you, and you believe you are eligible, you should speak with your pharmacist.
How does the new medicine service work?
There are three stages to the new medicine service. The first consultation takes place when you collect your new medicine from your pharmacy. Your pharmacist will provide you with the relevant information about your medicine, such as your dosage and potential side effects. You can also use this opportunity to ask your pharmacist any questions you may have about your medicine. They will also book your second and third appointments. The appointments will be at a time that is suitable for you. They can be either in person or over the phone. They will take place about two weeks after starting your new medicine. They should only take about 10-15 minutes each.
During these appointments, your pharmacist will ask you some questions to see how you are getting on with your new medicine. For example, if you have developed any side effects or missed any doses. The appointments allow you to let your pharmacist know about any problems you are experiencing with your new medicine. Your pharmacist will advise on the appropriate solutions to these problems and may refer you back to your GP if required. Your pharmacist will also check you are using your medicine correctly. For example, if you are using an inhaler, they will discuss the correct inhaler technique with you. Hopefully, this service will help improve your understanding of your new medication.
If you have any problems with your medicine after the new medicine service finishes, you should speak with your pharmacist. They will be happy to help you.
Do I have to pay for the new medicine service?
No, you do not have to pay for the new medicine service. It is provided free of charge on the NHS.
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