Do more exercise, eat a balanced diet, and drink alcohol within safe limits. We are constantly told to do these things by the media and health professionals. So much so, that many of us become immune to this constant barrage of information. Many of us ignore the advice that we receive, and always tend to ‘plan’ to improve our lifestyles.

Medicines Use Reviews are a tool, which can help pharmacists to make this advice relevant to patients. Advice regarding a healthy lifestyle can be tailored around a patients condition or daily routine. An example of such a scenario would be during an MUR for someone taking blood pressure medication. The patient could be informed of how a reduction in salt, increased exercise and relaxation methods could help their blood pressure to fall. Also during the MUR, the pharmacist can mention that increased physical exercise doesn’t have to mean going to the gym every night. They can build up a rapport with the patient and suggest activities that the patient may enjoy, or that can fit in with their daily routine. This could be a bit of gardening, walking to the paper shop, or taking the dog out for a longer walk

An individual would be more be more likely to implement the advice if they are aware of a ‘happy ending’ scenario at the end of it. In conclusion, pharmacists need to make the most of the increased patient contact that MURs give us. We need to drive home the message that maintaining a healthy lifestyle shouldn’t be a chore, and that it can dramatically improve the patient’s health.