The NHS Medicines Use Review: What It Is & Why You Should Ask For It
Author: Primary Health Awareness Trust
Published: June 2025
What Is a Medicines Use Review (MUR)?
A Medicines Use Review is a free NHS service available through many community pharmacies across the UK. It’s a one-to-one consultation with a pharmacist to help you understand:
- Why you’re taking each medicine
- How to take it correctly
- What side effects to watch for
- Whether the medicines are still appropriate
It’s designed to empower you to take control of your prescriptions — especially if you’re managing long-term conditions or using multiple medications (polypharmacy).
Who Can Request an MUR?
You are eligible if you:
- Take multiple regular medications
- Have a long-term condition like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
- Recently left hospital with new medicines
- Are unsure about how or why you take certain tablets
Many older adults are unaware this service even exists — but you can ask your pharmacist directly. You don’t need a GP referral.
What Happens During the Review?
- You’ll sit privately with a trained pharmacist (in person or via phone).
- They’ll review your current medication list, including prescriptions, supplements, and over-the-counter items.
- They may identify:
- Duplicate treatments
- Side effects you may not have connected to medication
- Missed or forgotten doses
- You’ll receive clear advice — and changes can be passed to your GP if needed.
Benefits of a Medicines Use Review
- ✔ Better understanding of what each medicine does
- ✔ Reduced risk of harmful interactions or side effects
- ✔ Improved confidence in managing your health independently
- ✔ Less medicine waste (and cost to the NHS)
💡 Surprise Prompt – Empowerment Check-In
“If I could ask my pharmacist anything without feeling rushed, what would I want to know about my medicines?”
This reflection can help uncover unspoken concerns and lead to stronger partnerships with your healthcare team — a key part of building cognitive confidence and long-term medication safety.
🧠 Digital Literacy Bonus: Booking & Tracking Reviews
Visit our Cognitive Resilience Hub to explore how you can track reviews, use NHS logins, and access pharmacy support tools online — especially useful for carers or family members assisting remotely.