Get the Health Advice You Need, When You Need It, From Your Pharmacist

You probably already know you can ask your pharmacist about the medications you're taking. But did you know you can talk to your pharmacist about many other health concerns as well?

As a highly trained health professional, your pharmacist knows a lot about medications. And she should: to obtain a pharmacy license in Canada, she must have completed a Bachelor's Degree in pharmacy from a Canadian University, passed a national board exam through the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada and have practical experience through an apprenticeship or internship program. That's almost as much training as a doctor, so it stands to reason she knows a thing or two about medications.

You can talk to your pharmacist about any medications you are taking, especially if you are taking other medications and supplements. He'll be able to give you information on drug interactions, whether or not the medications can be taken with food, which ones should be taken on an empty or full stomach and which ones must be stored in the fridge.

You can also go to her for advice on medications, over-the-counter medicines like cold remedies and pain relievers, vitamins and minerals and even items like sunscreen. She can also answer questions about home pregnancy tests, glucose tests, anti-smoking medications, birth control and other common items found on drug store shelves.

Finally, in some provinces, pharmacists may be able to extend your prescriptions in case of an emergency. It helps to talk to your pharmacist before an emergency arises to see if this is a service he can provide. You never know when you might need to rely on your pharmacist - it could even save your life.

Robert G. Jones is part of the editorial team at Health Local, http://www.health-local.com, Canada's newest online directory for health, nutrition and wellness advice.