News & Notes / family

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. Your doctor must issue a new prescription each month.

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 the prescription so it's ready when you arrive
• Set a recurring calendar reminder for the same date each month

ADHD Medication and School

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

Speak with a Pharmacist in Waterloo

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.

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 are up to date on vaccinations.

Vaccination Checklist for School-Age Children

Ontario has a publicly funded immunization schedule for 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

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 is available at The Boardwalk Pharmacy with no appointment needed.

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

Walk in for flu shots anytime. Call (519) 578-3000 for vaccine availability. Learn more about our flu shot service.