Supervised consumption is an NHS-commissioned pharmacy service supporting people who are prescribed medicines like methadone or buprenorphine as part of a treatment plan for opioid dependence. The pharmacist supervises each dose, ensuring it's taken safely and as prescribed.
How we deliver the service
We provide supervised consumption in our private consultation room — not at the counter. Our team is trained, experienced, and non-judgemental. You'll be treated with the same care, respect and confidentiality we offer any other patient.
Why supervised consumption matters
Supervised dosing is one of the safest ways to support someone through opioid substitution therapy:
- It reduces the risk of overdose.
- It prevents diversion of medication to others, particularly children, who could be seriously harmed.
- It provides regular contact with a healthcare professional — an opportunity to talk if you need to.
Supervision is used for as long as your prescriber thinks it's clinically appropriate. As treatment progresses and is stable, your prescriber may move you toward less frequent supervision or take-home doses.
Talk to us in confidence
If you've been referred to us for supervised consumption, please come in and introduce yourself when you can. We'll explain the routine and answer any questions. Everything you tell us is confidential.