News & Notes

Most people think of a pharmacist as the person who fills your prescription and sends you on your way. But the role of a pharmacist goes much deeper — especially at an independent pharmacy where we have the time to actually sit down with you.

What Is a Pharmacist Consultation?

A pharmacist consultation is a private, scheduled appointment with one of our licensed pharmacists — a dedicated block of time where we focus entirely on your health and medication needs, with no interruptions.

What Can a Pharmacist Consultation Cover?

• New medication review — understanding a newly prescribed medication, how to take it, and what side effects to watch for
• Drug interaction check — if you're taking multiple medications from different doctors
• Side effect management — strategies for managing common side effects
• Chronic disease management — diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol
• Minor ailment assessment — Ontario pharmacists are now authorized to assess and prescribe for 19 minor ailments, including UTIs, cold sores, and skin conditions

Ontario's Minor Ailments Program — Did You Know?

As of 2023, Ontario pharmacists are authorized to assess and prescribe treatments for 19 minor ailments without a doctor's visit. This includes UTIs, oral thrush, cold sores, insect bites, and allergic rhinitis.

Book a Pharmacist Consultation in Waterloo

Call us at (519) 578-3000 to book. Walk-ins are also welcome for minor ailment assessments during business hours.

430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo, ON N2T 0C2
Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday & Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Every fall, pharmacies and clinics across Canada get the same question: "Is this a cold, the flu, or COVID?" The symptoms can overlap enough to cause genuine confusion — but the distinction matters, both for how you treat it and for protecting the people around you.

Common Cold

• Gradual onset — symptoms develop slowly over 1–2 days
• Runny or stuffy nose is usually the main symptom
• Low or no fever in adults
• Fatigue is mild
• Rarely causes serious complications in healthy adults

Influenza (Flu)

• Sudden onset — you can feel fine at noon and miserable by dinner
• High fever (38–40°C) is common
• Significant body aches and chills
• Severe fatigue and weakness
• Can lead to serious complications, especially in high-risk groups

COVID-19

• Variable onset — can be gradual or sudden
• Loss of taste or smell (less common with newer variants)
• Shortness of breath in some cases
• Symptoms can range from very mild to severe
• Test with a rapid antigen test if you're unsure

The Best Way to Protect Yourself: Vaccinate

There's no vaccine for the common cold, but there are effective vaccines for both flu and COVID-19 — and both are available at The Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo with no appointment needed.

Need Advice? Ask Our Pharmacist.

Walk in or call (519) 578-3000. 430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo | Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday & Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Get your flu shot in Waterloo

Flu season is here — and if you haven't gotten your flu shot yet, now is the time. At The Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo, we offer walk-in flu vaccinations with no appointment required.

When Is the Best Time to Get a Flu Shot?

The best time to get your flu shot in Ontario is October or early November. This timing gives your immune system 2–4 weeks to build protection before flu activity typically peaks in December and January.

Who Should Get the Flu Shot?

Health Canada recommends the flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. It's especially critical for:

• Adults 65 and older
• Children aged 6 months to 5 years
• Pregnant women
• Anyone with chronic conditions — diabetes, heart disease, asthma, or compromised immune systems
• Healthcare workers and caregivers

Is the Flu Shot Free in Ontario?

Yes — the flu vaccine is free for all Ontarians aged 6 months and older under the Universal Influenza Immunization Program (UIIP). No OHIP card required. No appointment needed.

Where to Get Your Flu Shot in Waterloo

Walk in to The Boardwalk Pharmacy — no appointment needed.

430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo, ON N2T 0C2
Phone: (519) 578-3000
Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday & Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

More about flu shots at our pharmacy | All vaccinations we offer

Managing ADHD medications for a child — or for yourself — comes with its own unique set of challenges. Controlled stimulant medications require monthly prescriptions, careful dose timing, and consistent communication between parents, patients, doctors, and pharmacists.

Why ADHD Medications Require Monthly Prescriptions

Most ADHD stimulant medications are classified as controlled substances in Canada, which means they cannot be refilled automatically or transferred between pharmacies like other prescriptions. Your doctor must issue a new prescription each month, typically valid for only 30 days. Planning ahead is essential.

Tips for Managing Monthly ADHD Prescriptions

• Schedule your doctor's appointment before you run out — book your follow-up when you have 7–10 days of medication left
• Have your prescription sent directly to our pharmacy — your doctor can fax or electronically transmit it
• Set a recurring calendar reminder for the same date each month
• Talk to our pharmacist about timing — if dose timing is affecting sleep or appetite, there may be alternatives worth discussing

ADHD Medication and School

If your child takes medication at school, the school likely requires a completed medication administration form signed by your doctor. Our pharmacists can help you understand what documentation is needed.

At The Boardwalk Pharmacy, we take time to talk through medication concerns with parents and patients. Call us at (519) 578-3000 or visit us at 430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month — a good time to shine a light on a free service that every person with diabetes in Ontario is entitled to: the MedsCheck for Diabetes program.

What Is MedsCheck for Diabetes?

MedsCheck for Diabetes is a government-funded Ontario program that provides patients with a comprehensive one-on-one medication and diabetes management review with a licensed pharmacist. Unlike a standard MedsCheck, it's available to any Ontario resident with a diabetes diagnosis — regardless of how many medications you take.

What Does the Review Cover?

• A complete review of all your diabetes medications — insulin, oral agents, and other drugs
• Blood sugar monitoring practices and targets
• How your other medications may affect blood sugar levels
• Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and what to do
• A printed personal medication record to share with your doctor

Is MedsCheck for Diabetes Free?

Yes — completely free. The program is funded through the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) system. You're entitled to one MedsCheck for Diabetes per year.

How to Book Your MedsCheck for Diabetes in Waterloo

Call us at (519) 578-3000 to book a MedsCheck for Diabetes appointment. Bring all your medications — prescription and over-the-counter, including your blood sugar monitor if you use one.

430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo, ON N2T 0C2
Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday & Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Learn more about MedsCheck | All our services

With September approaching, Waterloo and Kitchener families are getting ready for a new school year. Amid the new backpacks and supply lists, it's easy to overlook one of the most important back-to-school tasks: making sure your children — and you — are up to date on vaccinations and health essentials.

Vaccination Checklist for School-Age Children

Before school starts, confirm your child is up to date on:

• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) — two doses required for school attendance in Ontario
• Varicella (chickenpox) — one or two doses depending on age
• Hepatitis B — typically given in Grade 7
• Meningococcal vaccine — typically given in Grade 7
• HPV vaccine — typically given in Grade 7
• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) — booster in Grade 7

Flu Shot — Get It Early

The flu spreads quickly in schools, and one sick child often means a sick household. The flu vaccine is free for all Ontarians and available at The Boardwalk Pharmacy with no appointment needed. We recommend getting it in October.

For Parents: Update Your Own Vaccines Too

• Tdap or Td booster (every 10 years)
• Annual flu vaccine
• COVID-19 boosters as recommended
• Shingles vaccine (Shingrix) if you're 50 or older

Call our team at The Boardwalk Pharmacy at (519) 578-3000. Walk in for flu shots anytime. 430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo

All vaccinations we offer | Flu shots in Waterloo

For seniors in Waterloo and Kitchener, the pharmacy is often one of the most frequently visited healthcare touchpoints. That makes the choice of pharmacy genuinely important for your health outcomes, not just your convenience.

Personalized Medication Reviews

Our pharmacists offer free MedsCheck medication reviews specifically designed to catch issues before they cause problems. We review your entire medication list — including over-the-counter products and supplements — and work with your doctors to simplify wherever possible.

Blister Packaging for Simpler Medication Management

Our blister packaging service sorts your medications into daily compartments so you always know exactly what to take and when. Combined with MedSync, it means one monthly pickup or delivery and no mid-month pharmacy trips.

Free Home Delivery

For seniors who find it difficult to travel to the pharmacy, our free home delivery service brings your medications to your door across Waterloo and Kitchener. Same-day delivery is available for orders placed before noon.

Vaccinations — Including Shingles and Pneumonia

We administer the Shingrix shingles vaccine (recommended for adults 50+), pneumococcal vaccines, and COVID-19 boosters. Ask us what's recommended for your age and health profile.

Call (519) 578-3000 or visit us at 430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo. Easy parking, wheelchair-accessible entrance.

Finding the right gift for a senior in your life can be challenging. This holiday season, consider gifts that support their health and independence — many of which are available right here at The Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo.

Practical Health Gifts for Seniors

• Blood pressure monitors — home blood pressure monitors allow seniors to track their readings between doctor visits. We can recommend validated, easy-to-use models.
• Blood glucose monitors — for seniors managing diabetes, a reliable glucose monitor is an essential daily tool.
• Pill organizers — a simple weekly pill organizer helps seniors stay on track with their medications. Or ask us about our blister packaging service.
• Compression socks — help with circulation, reduce swelling, and are especially useful for seniors who spend long periods sitting or standing.
• Thermometers — digital and ear thermometers make it easy for seniors to monitor their temperature at home.
• Vitamins and supplements — Vitamin D, calcium, and B12 are commonly recommended for seniors. Ask our pharmacist which supplements are appropriate.

The Gift of Better Pharmacy Care

If you have a senior in your life who is managing multiple medications, consider setting them up with our blister packaging service or free home delivery. These services make daily medication management simpler and safer.

Visit us at 430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo or call (519) 578-3000.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month — a good time to shine a light on a free service that every person with diabetes in Ontario is entitled to but few know exists: the MedsCheck for Diabetes program.

What Is MedsCheck for Diabetes?

MedsCheck for Diabetes is a government-funded Ontario program that provides patients with a comprehensive one-on-one medication and diabetes management review with a licensed pharmacist. Unlike a standard MedsCheck, it's available to any Ontario resident with a diabetes diagnosis — regardless of how many medications you take.

What Does the Review Cover?

• A complete review of all your diabetes medications — insulin, oral agents, and other drugs
• Blood sugar monitoring practices and targets
• How your other medications may affect blood sugar levels
• Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and what to do
• A printed personal medication record to share with your doctor

Is MedsCheck for Diabetes Free?

Yes — completely free. The program is funded through the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) system. You're entitled to one MedsCheck for Diabetes per year.

How to Book Your MedsCheck for Diabetes in Waterloo

Call us at (519) 578-3000 to book. Bring all your medications — including your blood sugar monitor if you use one.

430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo, ON N2T 0C2 | Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday & Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Learn more about MedsCheck | All our services

A new year is a great time to take stock of your health and make sure you're taking full advantage of the services available to you. Here are five ways The Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo can help you start 2027 on the right foot.

1. Book a Free MedsCheck

If you take three or more prescription medications, you likely qualify for a free MedsCheck — a private, one-on-one review of all your medications with a licensed pharmacist. It's one of the most valuable and underused services in Ontario.

2. Set Up Blister Packaging

Start the year with a better system for managing your medications. Our blister packaging service organizes your medications by day and time, eliminating the guesswork and reducing missed doses.

3. Switch to Free Home Delivery

If you're not already using our free home delivery service, January is a great time to start — especially with the cold weather making trips to the pharmacy less appealing.

4. Transfer All Your Prescriptions

If you're still going to a chain pharmacy out of habit, consider transferring your prescriptions to The Boardwalk Pharmacy. It's free, takes two minutes, and the difference in service is immediate.

5. Book a Pharmacist Consultation

Have questions about your medications, side effects, or health goals for the new year? Book a one-on-one pharmacist consultation. We're here to help.

Call (519) 578-3000 or visit us at 430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo.

As the seasons change and trees and grasses start to bloom, millions of Canadians — including many residents of Kitchener-Waterloo — begin experiencing the familiar misery of seasonal allergies. Our pharmacists at The Boardwalk Pharmacy can help you find the right relief.

Common Allergy Symptoms

• Sneezing and runny nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy throat or skin
• Fatigue (often caused by poor sleep due to congestion)

Over-the-Counter Allergy Medications

Antihistamines are the most common first-line treatment:

• Cetirizine (Reactine) — non-drowsy, long-acting (24 hours)
• Loratadine (Claritin) — non-drowsy, good for daytime use
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) — effective but causes drowsiness; better for nighttime
• Fexofenadine (Allegra) — non-drowsy, minimal side effects

Nasal corticosteroid sprays (Flonase, Nasacort) are highly effective for nasal symptoms and work best when started a few weeks before allergy season.

Decongestants (pseudoephedrine, oxymetazoline) provide fast relief for nasal congestion but should not be used for more than 3 days.

When to See a Doctor

If over-the-counter medications aren't providing enough relief, or if your symptoms include significant asthma symptoms, speak with your doctor about prescription options including allergy immunotherapy.

Ask Our Pharmacist

Our pharmacists can recommend the best allergy medication for your specific symptoms and health profile. Walk in or call (519) 578-3000.

430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo, ON N2T 0C2 | Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday & Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Managing diabetes medications effectively is one of the most important things you can do for your long-term health. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing diabetes for years, our pharmacists at The Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo are here to help.

Types of Diabetes Medications

There are several classes of diabetes medications, and many people take more than one:

• Metformin — usually the first medication prescribed, works by reducing glucose production in the liver
• SGLT2 inhibitors (empagliflozin, dapagliflozin) — help kidneys remove excess glucose
• GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, liraglutide) — reduce appetite and blood sugar
• Insulin — many types, from rapid-acting to long-acting
• Sulfonylureas — stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin

Tips for Managing Your Diabetes Medications

• Take medications at the same time each day — consistency is key for blood sugar control
• Never skip doses — if you miss a dose, follow the instructions on your medication label or call us
• Store insulin properly — opened vials should be kept at room temperature; unopened insulin must be refrigerated
• Monitor for side effects — nausea, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), and digestive issues are common; talk to us if they persist
• Keep a medication list — carry it with you to all medical appointments

Book a Free MedsCheck for Diabetes

If you have diabetes, you qualify for a free annual MedsCheck — a comprehensive one-on-one review with one of our pharmacists. Call us at (519) 578-3000 to book yours.

Book a MedsCheck | All our services