New Medicine Service (NMS)
Free NHS support for starting new medicines
Overview
The New Medicine Service is a free NHS-supported follow-up service for patients starting specific new medicines for long-term conditions. Our pharmacists help you use treatment safely, manage side effects, and improve confidence with your new prescription.
What is the New Medicine Service?
NMS is a structured pharmacist support service delivered after a new prescription is started for an eligible long-term condition. Follow-up conversations help identify practical issues early, improve adherence, and reduce avoidable medicine-related complications.
Examples of eligible long-term conditions
Respiratory and cardiovascular conditions
Asthma, COPD, angina, atrial fibrillation, heart failure
Metabolic and bone health conditions
Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, gout
Neurological and vascular pathways
Epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, stroke or TIA follow-up medicines
Additional eligible categories
Glaucoma, DVT-related pathways, and other NHS-listed NMS groups
How it works
How the NMS Works
The service includes staged pharmacist contact to make sure your new medicine is working well for you.
- Initial discussion when you start your new medicine
- Follow-up call around 7-14 days to review early response
- Further check around 21-28 days where needed
- Advice on dose timing, side effects, and adherence
- Referral back to GP if treatment review is needed
Who Can Use This Service?
- Patients starting a newly prescribed medicine in an eligible condition group
- Medicine must be new to you rather than routine repeat supply
- Registered with a GP in England
- Willing to complete follow-up pharmacist check-ins
- 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 when medicine changes can feel uncertain
- Clear advice on how and when to take treatment
- Early side-effect troubleshooting
- Improves confidence and long-term adherence
- Convenient follow-up by phone or in person
What is included
Related Products
Browse treatments related to this service available in our online shop
Frequently asked questions
You need an eligible new prescription and a valid NHS pathway. Our team can confirm eligibility and onboarding details during your first contact.
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.