Shingles – Free NHS Pharmacy First Service

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus. Treatment works best when it is started early. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, Medwin Pharmacy can assess shingles and, where appropriate, supply treatment without a GP appointment.

How does the service work?

You do not need an appointment or a referral. Speak to our pharmacy team and they will arrange a private consultation, usually the same day.

The pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had them and your medical history, and will carry out any checks the NHS pathway requires. The consultation takes place in our private consultation room.

If the pharmacist decides treatment is appropriate, they can supply it directly under a national NHS protocol, without you needing to see a GP first. Depending on the condition this may include prescription-only medicine. If treatment is not suitable, or your symptoms suggest something that needs further assessment, the pharmacist will refer you to your GP practice or another NHS service.

There is no charge for the consultation. If you are supplied with a medicine, normal NHS prescription charges apply unless you are exempt.

Who is eligible?

The NHS Pharmacy First shingles pathway is for adults aged 18 years and over. The pharmacist will confirm at your consultation whether the service is right for you, as some people are not suitable for treatment under this pathway and are better seen by a GP.

Speak to Us About Shingles

Medwin Pharmacy, 22 Gillygate, York, YO31 7EQ
Call us on 01904 642557 or email info@medwinpharmacy.co.uk

Contact the Pharmacy

What is Shingles?

If you have had chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in your body. It can reactivate years later as shingles, usually affecting one area on one side of the body. It often begins with tingling, burning or pain in the skin a few days before any rash appears.

Symptoms to look out for

  • Tingling, burning or pain in one area of skin, often before a rash appears
  • A rash on one side of the body that does not cross the midline
  • Blisters that fill, burst and then crust over
  • Itching or a very tender patch of skin
  • Feeling generally unwell, sometimes with a headache or temperature

Shingles treatment is most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing, so please speak to us as soon as you can. Shingles affecting the eye, or shingles in someone with a weakened immune system, needs urgent medical assessment rather than a pharmacy consultation.

If your symptoms get worse, do not improve, or you feel very unwell at any point, contact your GP practice or call NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.

Other Services

Feeling unwell? Speak to our pharmacist

NHS Pharmacy First consultations are free and no appointment is needed.

Contact the Pharmacy