Have you had your annual medication review?

What is a medication review?

A medication review is a chance for your GP to review the medicines that you are taking. Some things that he or she may want to check with you during the review include:

• Do you know why you are taking each of your medicines?
  • Remember you always have a choice when it comes to taking your medicines but it’s better to check with your GP or pharmacist before stopping a medicine.
  • Many medicines are meant to be taken long term.
  • Some medicines are for short term use only and may have risks if taken long term e.g. sleeping tablets, laxatives, certain pain killers.
• Do you still need the medicines?
• Are you having any side effects? e.g. some pain killers may cause constipation.  If you think that you have experienced a side-effect from a medicine, it is important to discuss this immediately with your doctor or pharmacist. You can also report via the national Yellow Card Scheme (website can be found on back of leaflet) so that we can make medicines safer.
• Is your medicine still working? e.g. you may need a blood pressure check.
• Do you need any blood tests carried out? e.g. to check how well your kidneys are working.

Your GP may also want to change your medicine to one which will work just as well but could save the NHS money.  This money could be redirected into other services such as hospital appointments and operations. Most importantly, the review means you can ask any questions you may have about your medicines.

If you would like a review please contact your surgery to make an appointment.

Further information: