Information about Medicines
Every month our practice prints close to five thousand prescriptions. As all tablets, creams and inhalers can be dangerous we make it our responsibility to help all our patients to use their medication safely. This is a very big task and one which we can do more easily with your help. Our computer tells us when someone may be over using or under using their tablets and also tells us if a mix of medication is potentially dangerous. This is all double checked by the pharmacist.
Everyone who uses regular medication has a review every year. This may involve blood tests, breathing tests, having your blood pressure checked or asking about side effects.
In order to help us manage your medication safely and to avoid waste, we ask you to:
- Let us know if you have stopped taking any medication
- Come for medication reviews and tests when asked
- Let us know if you take any herbal or alternative medicines regularly
Medication is very costly. The NHS can make big savings if medication is not wasted or stockpiled. If you do have a lot of tablets left over or stored away, please let the practice know.
Finding out about medication
If you want to know more about any of the medication you are using, what side effects it may give you or what its benefits are there are some excellent web sites to help you. We would recommend you start any enquiry at www.patient.co.uk. Alternatively you could ask any local pharmacist or enquire with the doctors or nurses at the practice.
If you want to understand more about your medication, you may be interested in looking at some of the information sources we use to keep ourselves up to date. Try:
BNF
This is the British National Formulary and contains information about every type of medication used in the UK, by GPs, Dentists and hospital specialists.
NICE
The National Institute of Clinical Excellence. This is the Government sponsored research unit of the NHS which look at whether new treatments should be offered on the NHS. Look particularly at the 'Guidance' section.
EU EXIT medicine update
The government is working closely with the NHS and suppliers to help to ensure medicines and medical products continue to be available for patients if there is a 'no deal' Brexit.
For more information please visit nhs.uk.