What is a Medicine Usage Review (MUR)?

A Medicine Usage Review (MUR) is a structured review conducted by a pharmacist in the United Kingdom to help patients better understand their prescribed medications. The aim is to ensure safe and effective use of medicines, improve adherence, and address any issues or side effects.
 

Benefits of a Medicine Usage Review

• Improved Medication Adherence – Ensuring patients take medications correctly.


• Identification of Issues – Spotting possible side effects, drug interactions, or concerns related to the medicine.


• Patient Education – Helping patients understand the purpose of their treatment, the proper dosages, and potential side effects.


• Cost Savings – Preventing unnecessary treatments or hospitalizations through better medication management.

 

The MUR Process in the UK

In the UK, MURs are part of the National Health Service (NHS) community pharmacy contract. During a Medicine Usage Review, a pharmacist will review all the prescribed medications a patient is taking, check for issues, and provide advice on how to use them correctly.
 

Typically, the MUR will cover:
 

• Checking how well the patient understands their medicines


• Ensuring medicines are being taken correctly


• Identifying any side effects or interactions


• Discussing any concerns the patient may have

 

How to Access a Medicine Usage Review

Patients in the United Kingdom can request an MUR from their local pharmacy. While this service was previously widely available under the NHS, it is being phased out in favor of more targeted medication reviews under new frameworks. However, many pharmacists still offer a similar service for their patients, particularly those with long-term conditions.
 

Why MURs Are Important for Patients in the UK

In the United Kingdom, where the NHS provides a broad range of health services, effective medicine use is crucial. Medicine Usage Reviews have played a key role in improving patient safety, reducing unnecessary hospital admissions, and optimizing healthcare outcomes for millions of patients.
 

As the NHS shifts toward a more personalized approach to medicine management, the principles of MURs continue to shape how pharmacists help patients with complex medication regimens.