Advice on minor illnesses

Pharmacists can offer advice on medicines you can buy for minor illnesses.

Advice on medicines

Pharmacists can give advice on your medicines. This includes how to use your medicine, worries about side effects or any other questions you have.

Disposing of old medicines

If your medicine is out of date or unwanted, do not put it in the bin or flush it down the toilet. Take it to your pharmacy to be disposed of safely.

Help with new medicines

You can have 3 appointments with a pharmacist when you start a new medicine for a long-term condition, to help with any questions.

Get help with newly prescribed medicines

Emergency contraception

Some pharmacies offer the emergency contraceptive pill for free. If you’re aged 16 or over, you can also buy it from most pharmacies.

Find out about emergency contraception.

Get a free blood pressure check

Some pharmacies offer a free blood pressure check.
Find a pharmacy that offers free blood pressure checks

More services

Other services that may be available at a local pharmacy include:

• advice from a pharmacist after contacting NHS 111 or a GP
• chlamydia screening and treatment
• advice and help on how to stop smoking
• cholesterol and blood sugar testing
• the substance misuse service, including needle and syringe exchange schemes
• advice and help on how to manage your weight

Ask a local pharmacist to find out what services they offer.