What is diabetes?

According to Diabetes UK there are currently over 2 million people with diabetes in the UK with another 750,000 who are yet to be diagnosed. For more information about the symptoms and treatment of diabetes, please visit www.diabetes.org.uk.

How can my local pharmacy help me to prevent diabetes?

All pharmacies can give you advice and support on leading a healthy lifestyle such as information on how to eat a healthy diet, to make sure you’re getting enough exercise. Some pharmacies may also offer weight management services to reduce your risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Some may also offer diabetes screening where you will be referred to your GP if you need further testing.

Treatment available for diabetes at your local pharmacy:

If you are prescribed a new medicine for the first time for diabetes, you may be able to get extra help and advice about your medicine from your local pharmacist through a free NHS-funded scheme called The New Medicine Service (NMS), available across England. The New Medicines Service allows people to discuss any concerns, e.g. side effects or what to do if you miss a dose. It can take place over the phone or in a pharmacy consultation room for approximately 15 minutes. You will receive a telephone call a couple of weeks later (or meet at the pharmacy) to resolve any outstanding issues – or you can be referred back to your GP if you need more help.

If you are taking two or more prescribed medicines, the NHS Medicines Use Review is another free NHS service that can help you get maximum benefit from your medicines. Ask at your local pharmacy for more information or, alternatively, your GP can refer you to your pharmacist. Pharmacists can also refer to other services and support groups that may help you. Some pharmacies also offer stop smoking services.