News & Notes / diabetes

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

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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.

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