PEOPLE throughout the Dunmow area who take regular medication are being offered a free medicine check-ups. The aim is to ensure patients are getting the most from their medicines, making sure that pills and potions do not clash and that they are not suffe

PEOPLE throughout the Dunmow area who take regular medication are being offered a free medicine check-ups.

The aim is to ensure patients are getting the most from their medicines, making sure that pills and potions do not clash and that they are not suffering from any side effects.

Judi Davies, pharmacist at Yogi Pharmacy, Market Place, Dunmow, said: "The service is called the 'Medicines Use Review' or MUR for short.

"It is for customers who have been taking more than one medicine and collecting it from the same pharmacy for three months or more.

"Customers can either take a chance and come into the shop and ask to speak to the pharmacist and we will see them as soon as we can depending on how busy the shop is.

"However, it's better to phone to tell us you'll be coming in. That way we will be able to get the paperwork out and you'll have less of a wait."

Two chemists in Dunmow are taking part in the scheme: Yogi Pharmacy, on Market Place, and Ropers The Chemist on High Street, Dunmow.

Chris Rose, of the Essex Local Pharmacy Committee, said: "The aim of the check-up is to ensure the medicines people take are right for them and are working effectively to manage their illness.

"This also includes finding out whether the dosage of their medication should change but none of this would be done without their GP's say so."

It is thought three categories of people will benefit from this.

They are: People who are taking four or more prescribed medicines on a regular basis; those who are taking medicines for a long-term condition such as asthma, arthritis, diabetes, epilepsy or coronary heart disease, and people over the age of 75.

During the review customers will be asked what medicines they take, including non-prescription drugs such as vitamins, supplements, herbal remedies or homeopathic remedies - in tablet, cream, inhaler or liquid form - all of which will be entered on a form to give a complete picture.

Following the check-up at the pharmacy, their doctor will be told of the pharmacists' suggestions.

"It's a great opportunity to ensure people are getting the best from their medicines and to have any queries or concerns answered," said Mrs Davies.

"Remember your pharmacist is always available to discuss any issues without the need to make an appointment," she added.