New Medicine Service (NMS)
Free NHS support for starting new medicines
Overview
The New Medicine Service is a free NHS service that provides additional support when you start a new medicine for a long-term condition. Our pharmacists help ensure you understand your medication, manage side effects, and get the most from your treatment.
What is the New Medicine Service?
The NMS is a free NHS service offered by community pharmacies. When you start a new medicine for conditions like asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, our pharmacist will check in with you to see how you're getting on. This helps improve medication adherence and addresses any concerns early.
Conditions Covered
Asthma & COPD
New inhalers and respiratory medications
High Blood Pressure
New antihypertensive medications
Diabetes (Type 2)
New diabetes medications
High Cholesterol
Statins and other cholesterol-lowering medicines
How it works
How the NMS Works
The service involves three structured consultations to support you with your new medicine.
- Initial consultation when you collect your new prescription
- Follow-up at 7-14 days to check how you're getting on
- Final review at 21-28 days to address any remaining concerns
- Consultations can be in person or by phone
- Advice on managing side effects and getting the best from your medicine
Who Can Use This Service?
- Anyone starting a new medicine for a long-term condition
- Medicine must be newly prescribed (not a repeat)
- Available for patients of any age
- Must be registered with a GP in England
- Available at no cost through the NHS
Service Cost
Free
The New Medicine Service is completely free. It is funded by the NHS as part of our community pharmacy services.
Important Information
The NMS covers specific long-term conditions. If you're starting a medicine for a condition not listed, you may still benefit from a medication review with our pharmacist. Never stop taking a prescribed medicine without consulting a healthcare professional first.
When to See Your GP
If you experience severe side effects from your new medicine, feel very unwell, or your condition worsens, contact your GP or call NHS 111. The NMS provides support and advice but does not replace urgent medical care.
Why Use the New Medicine Service?
- Completely free NHS service
- Structured support at key milestones
- Help understanding how your medicine works
- Manage side effects early
- Improve your confidence with new treatments
- Convenient in-person or telephone consultations
What is included
Related Products
Browse treatments related to this service available in our online shop
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the NMS is 100% free. It is funded by the NHS and there is no charge to you. It's one of the services we're proud to offer as a community pharmacy.
Need support from our pharmacy team?
For more information, or to book an appointment, contact us and we will guide you to the right service.