NHS Service

New Medicine Service

Support and guidance when starting a new medication. Our pharmacists will help you understand your treatment and manage any side effects.

About the Service

What is the New Medicine Service?

The New Medicine Service (NMS) is a free NHS service offered by pharmacies to people who have been prescribed a new medicine for certain long-term conditions. The service provides support to help you improve your understanding of your new medicine and ensure you're taking it correctly.

Why is this service important?

Research has shown that many people face problems when they start a new medicine:

  • Up to 30-50% of medicines are not taken as prescribed
  • Many patients experience side effects or have concerns about their medication
  • Some patients stop taking their medicine without telling their healthcare provider

The New Medicine Service aims to address these issues by providing additional support and guidance when you start a new medicine.

How It Works

The New Medicine Service Process

Our New Medicine Service provides structured support through a series of consultations to help you get the most from your new medicine.

First Consultation

Two weeks after starting your new medicine, we'll check how you're getting on and answer any questions.

Second Consultation

After another two weeks, we'll have a follow-up consultation to address any ongoing issues or concerns.

Final Review

Six weeks after starting your medicine, we'll have a final review to ensure everything is working well for you.

Eligibility

Who is Eligible for the Service?

The New Medicine Service is available to people who have been newly prescribed a medicine for certain conditions. You are eligible if:

Eligible Conditions

  • Asthma
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
  • Conditions requiring anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy
  • Other long-term conditions

Additional Requirements

  • You must be taking the medicine for the first time
  • The medicine must have been prescribed by your GP, hospital doctor, or nurse
  • You must be registered with a GP in England
  • You must be willing to give consent for the pharmacist to share information with your GP

If you're not sure whether you're eligible for the New Medicine Service, please speak to one of our pharmacists who will be happy to advise you.

Benefits of the New Medicine Service

For Patients

  • Better understanding of your new medicine and how to take it
  • Support with any questions or concerns you may have
  • Help with managing side effects
  • Improved adherence to your medication

For Healthcare

  • Reduced medicine wastage
  • Better health outcomes for patients
  • Reduced GP and hospital visits
  • Improved communication between healthcare providers
Get Started

Starting a new medicine?

Our pharmacists are here to support you. Book a New Medicine Service consultation today.