A recent update to Direction 4(2) of the Pharmaceutical Services (Advanced and Enhanced Services) (England) Directions 2013 outlines the purpose of a MUR as follows: €€¦ with the patient's agreement, to improve the patient's knowledge and use of drugs by, in particular:

1. Establishing the patient's actual use, understanding and experience of taking drugs
2. Identifying, discussing and assisting in the resolution of poor or ineffective use of drugs by the patient
3. Identifying side-effects and drug interactions that may affect the patient's compliance with instructions given to them by a healthcare professional for the taking of drugs
4. Improving clinical and cost-effectiveness of drugs prescribed to patients, thereby reducing the wastage of such drugs.€

In Wales, the MUR service has been developed into a specific discharge medicines review (DMR) service. It differs from the English MUR in that the first part of the DMR service is to ensure discharge medicines reconciliation is undertaken (e.g. between hospital and home), and the patient's GP is alerted to any discrepancies.

Support for using and taking medication, including medicines adherence, is also part of the DMR service through a discussion with the patient. Any discrepancies identified at discharge are followed up with the patient to ensure that all issues have been resolved.