News & Notes / kitchener-waterloo

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

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

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). You don't need an OHIP card. No appointment needed.

What About the COVID-19 Vaccine This Fall?

Updated COVID-19 vaccines are typically available each fall alongside flu vaccines. Ask our pharmacist about getting both done together.

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 | (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

Most people think of a pharmacist as the person who fills your prescription and answers a quick question about side effects. 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
• Drug interaction check — reviewing medications from different doctors for potential interactions
• Medication effectiveness concerns — if a medication doesn't seem to be working
• Side effect management — strategies for managing common side effects
• Minor ailment assessment — Ontario pharmacists can now assess and prescribe for 19 minor ailments, including UTIs, cold sores, and skin conditions

Ontario's Minor Ailments Program

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

Book a Pharmacist Consultation in Waterloo

Call us at (519) 578-3000. 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

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.

Personalized Medication Reviews

Seniors often manage multiple chronic conditions and multiple medications simultaneously. Our pharmacists offer free MedsCheck medication reviews specifically designed to catch drug interactions and duplicate therapies before they cause problems.

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.

Free Home Delivery

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.

A Pharmacist Who Knows You

At The Boardwalk Pharmacy, our team builds long-term relationships with our patients. We know your health history, your medications, and your preferences — which means we catch things others might miss.

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.

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.

Common Cold

• Gradual onset — symptoms develop slowly over 1–2 days
• Runny or stuffy nose is usually the main symptom
• Mild sore throat and sneezing
• Low or no fever in adults
• 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)
• Fever, cough, fatigue
• Shortness of breath in some cases
• 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 — both available at The Boardwalk Pharmacy in Waterloo with no appointment needed.

When Should You See a Doctor?

See a doctor or go to urgent care if you experience: difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, severe vomiting, or if a high fever doesn't improve with medication.

Need advice? Ask our pharmacist. Walk in or call (519) 578-3000.

If you take multiple medications, you're probably familiar with the mid-month pharmacy scramble — one prescription runs out on the 8th, another on the 18th, a third at the end of the month. MedSync is the solution.

What Is MedSync?

MedSync (medication synchronization) aligns all of your prescription refill dates to a single day each month. Instead of making multiple trips to the pharmacy at different times, everything is ready on one day — one pickup, one call, one delivery.

How Does MedSync Work?

When you enroll in MedSync at The Boardwalk Pharmacy, we review all your active prescriptions and calculate a single synchronization date that works for you. We then coordinate with your prescribers and insurance plan to align all your refill cycles.

MedSync + Blister Packaging: The Perfect Pair

MedSync works especially well alongside our blister packaging service. Once your prescriptions are synchronized, we sort them all into a single monthly blister pack — organized by day and time — ready for pickup or delivery.

How to Enroll in MedSync in Waterloo

Enrollment is simple — just ask us. Call (519) 578-3000 or visit us at 430 The Boardwalk, Suite 102, Waterloo.

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.