HEALTH

Optimizing your health with the help of your local pharmacist

Posted on September 09, 2021 | by Fusia

Managing your health can be complex and the pandemic has only added further strain to our healthcare system, making it harder for many in our community to know where to turn for healthcare advice.

Fortunately, your local pharmacy is the front door to the healthcare system and your pharmacist can help. One of the many ways they can support you is with a medication review.

“When taking more than one prescription medication, it’s important to ensure you’re getting the most out of your medicines,” explains Victor Wong, a pharmacist at Shoppers Drug Mart. “When speaking to a healthcare professional about your medications, it is also important to disclose any non-prescription medications, vitamins or natural health products to help ensure they are contributing to your optimal health.”

A medication review can help you understand how to best take your prescriptions and what each one is for, and find out about common side effects and how to manage or minimize them. Non-prescription products and even the foods we eat can affect how our prescriptions work and ultimately how well they address the ailment or illness they were prescribed to treat.

“A medication review presents the perfect opportunity to ask your pharmacist any burning questions during your private appointment,” says Wong. “Your pharmacist will also provide you with a complete list of all medications you’re currently taking to provide to other healthcare professionals as needed.”

Your local Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacist can review and assess whatever you are currently taking and address additional health concerns. Appointments typically last 20 to 30 minutes and are covered by most provincial health programs, excluding Manitoba. To learn more, talk to your local pharmacist today.

(Source: NewsCanada)

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