NHS New Medicine Service
Started a new medicine for a long-term condition? Free NHS support from the pharmacist over the first few weeks: how it’s going, side effects and any questions.
Book online at least 2 hours ahead
- Free on the NHS when you start a new medicine for one of 17 long-term conditions
- A chat with the pharmacist 1 to 2 weeks in, and a short follow-up a few weeks later
- In our private room, or by phone
- Anything that needs changing, we take up with your GP
Free on the NHS. If you’d rather talk by phone, say so when you book.
If you feel very unwell, call NHS 111, or in an emergency, 999.
What you get
Why it matters
The first few weeks on a new medicine are when side effects, doubts and mix-ups happen, and when many people quietly stop taking it. A short chat at the right time helps it work.
What happens
When you collect it, we go through the new medicine and arrange a chat about 1 to 2 weeks later: how it’s going, any side effects, any questions. Two to three weeks after that, a short follow-up to check it’s settled.
Which conditions
Asthma and COPD, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, gout, glaucoma, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, bladder problems (incontinence or retention), heart failure, after a heart attack, atrial fibrillation, a long-term risk of blood clots, stroke or TIA, coronary heart disease, and depression (18 and over).
Quick answers
- Does it cost anything?
- No. It’s an NHS service and it’s free. The medicine itself is the usual NHS prescription charge, unless you get free prescriptions.
- Do I need my GP to refer me?
- No. If you’ve been started on a new medicine for one of the conditions, ask us when you collect it, or book here.
- Does the medicine have to come from you?
- It’s usually done by the pharmacy that gives you the new medicine, so it’s easiest when your prescription comes to us. If yours went somewhere else, book anyway and we’ll check.
- Can someone else join, or book for me?
- Yes. A carer or family member can join the chat, or book it in your name.
- How long does it take?
- About 15 minutes with the pharmacist in our private consultation room.
- How far ahead do I book online?
- At least 2 hours ahead. If it’s sooner than that, call us on 01254 399898.
- Where is it?
- Oswaldtwistle Pharmacy, 300 Union Road, Oswaldtwistle, Accrington, BB5 3JD.
- When are you open?
- Monday to Saturday, 8:00am to 10:30pm. Sunday, 12 noon to 10:30pm.
Your visit, start to finish
- 1
Learn
What it is, and whether it’s right for you: it’s all above. Any questions, call us on 01254 399898 or pop in.
- 2
Book
Choose a time online in a minute or two, at least 2 hours ahead. You’ll get a confirmation by text.
- 3
Attend
About 15 minutes with the pharmacist in our private consultation room at 300 Union Road, Oswaldtwistle, Accrington, BB5 3JD. Bring any medicines you take, or a list of them.
- 4
Buy
Anything the pharmacist recommends is ready on the day, or to order online for collection or delivery.
