NHS New Medicine Service

What is the New Medicine Service?

This is a free NHS service provided by our pharmacists, aimed at supporting you when starting a new medicine for specific health conditions. It helps ensure you gain the best outcome from your treatment. A pharmacist will telephone you to discuss any concerns, offer guidance on possible side effects, and refer you back to your GP if a review is needed.

How It Works

These steps explain what will happen when you're prescribed a medicine that qualifies for the New Medicine Service.

Receive an Invitation


We'll invite you to book once we've dispensed a new medicine that makes you eligible for this service.

Speak with a Pharmacist


Talk through any questions you may have about your new medicine. A pharmacist will phone you at your preferred date and time.

Two-Week Follow-Up


The pharmacist will contact you again after two weeks to ensure everything is going smoothly.

Referral if Required


If necessary, the pharmacist will refer you to your GP for a review of your medicine.

What Are the Advantages of the

New Medicine Service?

Free, Private Consultation with Your Pharmacist

  • Discuss any concerns about your new prescription.
  • Gain confidence in when and how to take your medicine correctly, supporting both your health and the NHS.
  • Lower the chance of any complications.

Long-Term Health Conditions Eligible for the New Medicine Service

  • Glaucoma
  • Diabetes (type 2)
  • Atrial fibrillation
  • Epilepsy
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Asthma
  • DVT and related conditions
  • Angina
  • COPD
  • Urinary incontinence
  • High cholesterol
  • Parkinson's disease
  • Osteoporosis
  • Stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
  • Heart failure
  • Gout
  • High blood pressure
GET STARTED

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be registered with Be Online Pharmacy to use this service?

Yes, we must dispense your new medication in order to offer you this service.

Is there anything I need to do before my appointment?

No preparation is needed, just be available to answer the phone at your chosen appointment time.

Our pharmacist will ask a few questions to check how you're getting on with your new medicine. If you have any queries after reading the leaflet provided, jot them down so you're ready to discuss them during the call.

How long will the call take?

Each phone call with the pharmacist usually takes about 10 minutes, depending on your questions. It shouldn’t last more than 15 minutes.

Will the pharmacist speak to my GP directly if any changes are needed?

Yes. If the pharmacist has any concerns, they’ll talk them through with you and, if necessary, send a message to your GP suggesting a review of your new medicine. You're welcome to keep a copy of this note for your records.

“Effortless and reassuring, their pharmacist helped me understand my new medication clearly. I felt supported throughout the process.”


— Sarah M.

“Professional and caring. The two‑week follow‑up call made all the difference. I felt confident and informed.”


— Andrew P.

“Fantastic service from start to finish. Quick dispatch, clear advice, and a caring approach. Highly recommend!”


— Chloe D.

Why Use This Service?

  • Provided free of charge through the NHS
  • No GP appointment required
  • Fast access to professional advice and appropriate treatment
  • All from the comfort and privacy of your own home
  • Free tracked delivery for any prescribed medication
  • Supports your local GP by easing appointment demand