Anxiety Archives - Dundas West Pharmacy

Health

Four Natural Ways to Manage Stress This Summer Without the Crash

Why Heat Affects Medications Summer is often seen as a time to slow down, recharge, and enjoy the outdoors. However, for many people, this season can also bring a unique kind of stress. Travel logistics, heat-related fatigue, disrupted routines, and the pressure to be constantly active can take a toll on both mental and physical well-being. Instead of reaching for high-caffeine drinks or quick fixes that lead to burnout, many people are turning to evidence-based natural remedies that support calm, focus, and recovery, without sedating side effects or dependency. Here are four pharmacist-recommended options to consider this summer: 1. Magnesium Glycinate: The Nervous System Supporter Magnesium plays a critical role in nervous system regulation, muscle relaxation, and sleep quality. Research shows that low magnesium levels are linked to increased anxiety and sleep disturbances, yet many Canadians are unknowingly deficient due to stress, poor diet, or medication use. Why it works:Magnesium glycinate is a well-absorbed form that’s gentle on the stomach and known for its calming effects. Common uses: General anxiety Muscle tension Poor sleep Headaches caused by stress Available in capsules or powder format, magnesium can be taken daily and is generally safe for most people, but consult your pharmacist if you take medications for blood pressure or heart conditions 2. L-Theanine: Calm Focus Without Fatigue L-theanine is an amino acid naturally found in green tea, known to promote alpha brain waves; the same type associated with calm and alert states. It has been shown in studies to reduce physiological markers of stress, such as heart rate and cortisol levels, without causing drowsiness. Why it’s helpful:It helps support mental clarity during periods of stress or high demand, making it popular among students, professionals, and frequent travellers. Ideal for: Daytime anxiety Exam or work stress Public speaking or social tension It can be taken alone or alongside low doses of caffeine to reduce jitters 3. Ashwagandha: The Adaptogen for Burnout Ashwagandha is a traditional herb used in Ayurvedic medicine, now backed by modern studies showing its effectiveness in reducing cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. It belongs to a group of herbs known as adaptogens, which help the body adapt to physical, emotional, and environmental stress. Evidence shows:Daily use of ashwagandha (particularly KSM-66 or Sensoril® extracts) can support: Reduced stress and anxiety Improved energy levels Better sleep quality Enhanced resilience during burnout Ashwagandha is available in capsules, powders, and teas. However, it may interact with certain medications, including thyroid drugs, so speak to your pharmacist before use. 4. Melatonin (Used Properly): Resetting Your Internal Clock While not a stress reliever in the traditional sense, melatonin can be a useful tool when stress affects sleep. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, and short-term use can be helpful for: Travel-related jet lag Shift work Trouble falling asleep due to racing thoughts A low dose (0.5–3 mg) taken 30–60 minutes before bed is typically enough. Overuse or high doses can cause grogginess and interfere with natural melatonin production, so it’s best used occasionally or with guidance. At Dundas West Pharmacy, we recognize that managing stress doesn’t always mean prescription medications. Whether you’re looking for a natural supplement, a lifestyle shift, or simply reliable guidance, we’re here to help you make informed choices based on real evidence, not trends. Not every product works the same for everyone. That’s why we’re happy to offer personalized consultations to help you find the right approach for your body and lifestyle. Have questions about natural stress support? Visit us in-store or give us a call. Latest Articles July 28, 2025 Four Natural Ways to Manage Stress This Summer Without the Crash July 15, 2025 Hot Weather, Cold Meds: How to Store Your Medication Safely in Summer June 24, 2025 What It Actually Means When the Label Says “Take with Food”? June 15, 2025 Allergy Season in Full Bloom: Tips to Breathe Easier May 29, 2025 Spring Cleaning Your Medicine Cabinet: What to Toss & What to Keep Categories Health (41) Seniors (13)

WP Admin Canin July 28, 2025

Health

Hot Weather, Cold Meds: How to Store Your Medication Safely in Summer

Summer heat in Toronto isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also affect the safety and effectiveness of your medications. Many prescriptions and over-the-counter products are temperature-sensitive. If stored improperly, they can lose potency, become unstable, or harmful. At Dundas West Pharmacy, we want to make sure your health isn’t compromised by a simple storage mistake. Why Heat Affects Medications Most medications are meant to be stored at room temperature (15°C to 25°C). When exposed to heat or humidity, the chemical structure of certain drugs can break down. This can lead to: Reduced effectiveness Increased side effects Potential health risks Some medications can also spoil without visible signs, making it easy to miss. Medications Most Sensitive to Heat While all medications should be kept cool and dry, the following are especially heat-sensitive: Insulin Thyroid medications Certain antibiotics and liquid suspensions Nitroglycerin tablets Biologics and injectablesInhalers Even common items like acetaminophen or aspirin can degrade faster when overheated. Where NOT to Store Your Medications In Your Car:Temperatures inside a parked car can soar above 50°C. Never leave medications inside, even briefly. In the Bathroom:Warm, humid air from showers can reduce the shelf life of medications. Stick to cool, dry spots like a bedroom drawer. Near Windows or Appliances:Keep medications away from direct sunlight, ovens, heaters, or windowsills. Tips for Travelling with Medications Flying? Keep meds in your carry-on. Checked luggage may face extreme temperatures. Bring a doctor’s note for any syringes or large quantities. Use a small cooler pack for heat-sensitive items. Using Insulin or Injectables? Use an insulated travel case with a cold pack. Don’t let medication touch the ice directly. Avoid freezing, which can ruin the medication. What to Do if Your Medication Gets Too Hot If your medication was left in a hot car, in direct sunlight, or outside the fridge longer than it should be, don’t take it until you speak to your pharmacist. We can help determine if it’s still safe or needs replacing. Medication storage matters more than most people realize, especially during a hot Toronto summer. Have questions about how to store your medications properly or travel safely with them? Visit Dundas West Pharmacy or give us a call. Our pharmacists are here to help you stay safe, cool, and protected. Latest Articles July 22, 2025 Hot Weather, Cold Meds: How to Store Your Medication Safely in Summer June 24, 2025 What It Actually Means When the Label Says “Take with Food”? June 15, 2025 Allergy Season in Full Bloom: Tips to Breathe Easier May 29, 2025 Spring Cleaning Your Medicine Cabinet: What to Toss & What to Keep May 14, 2025 How to Refill Prescriptions Hassle-Free at Dundas West Pharmacy Categories Health (40) Seniors (12)

WP Admin Canin July 15, 2025

Health

What It Actually Means When the Label Says “Take with Food”?

If you’ve ever picked up a prescription and seen the label “take with food,” you might’ve wondered: How much food? What kind of food? Does a cracker count? You’re not alone. These instructions might sound simple, but they can be a bit confusing. At Dundas West Pharmacy, we often get questions about what “take with food” really means, and it’s more important than you might think. Why Some Medications Need Food When pharmacists recommend taking a medication with food, it’s usually for one of two main reasons: To Prevent Stomach UpsetSome medications can irritate the lining of your stomach. Taking them with food acts as a buffer, reducing the risk of nausea, cramping, or discomfort. Common examples include: Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen Certain antibiotics (like doxycycline) Iron supplements To Help the Body Absorb the MedicationFor some drugs, your body absorbs them better when food is in your stomach. Fatty meals in particular can help certain medications work more effectively. Examples include: Some types of antifungal medications HIV medications Certain vitamins like A, D, E, and K What Counts as “Food”? Here’s what you should know: A full meal is ideal, especially if the medication is known to be harsh on the stomach. A small snack (such as yogurt, a piece of toast, or a banana) may be enough for medications with mild effects. Milk or a nutritional shake can work in some cases, especially for people who don’t feel like eating solid food. A cracker or a sip of juice? Likely not enough, unless your pharmacist says otherwise. When in doubt, ask your pharmacist. We can give specific guidance based on the medication and your lifestyle. What Happens If You Skip the Food? Skipping food when it’s recommended can cause: Stomach pain or nausea Dizziness or light-headedness Poor absorption of the medication Reduced effectiveness over time If you’ve accidentally taken a dose without eating, call us. We’ll help you determine if you need to re-dose or just keep an eye on side effects. Always Remember “Take with food” isn’t just a suggestion. It’s there to help your medication work better and to keep you comfortable. At Dundas West Pharmacy, we’re always here to answer questions about how (and when) to take your medications properly. Next time you pick up a prescription and see those instructions, feel free to ask us what kind of food would work best. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your treatment. Latest Articles June 24, 2025 What It Actually Means When the Label Says “Take with Food”? June 15, 2025 Allergy Season in Full Bloom: Tips to Breathe Easier May 29, 2025 Spring Cleaning Your Medicine Cabinet: What to Toss & What to Keep May 14, 2025 How to Refill Prescriptions Hassle-Free at Dundas West Pharmacy April 28, 2025 Stress Relief in Etobicoke: Simple Tips for a Calmer Life Categories Health (39) Seniors (10)

WP Admin Canin June 24, 2025

Health

Allergy Season in Full Bloom: Tips to Breathe Easier

The sun’s shining, flowers are blooming, and for many Torontonians, so are the sneezes, sniffles, and itchy eyes. Welcome to allergy season, when pollen takes centre stage and your sinuses protest. If you’re one of the millions of Canadians who experience seasonal allergies (also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever), you know the struggle. But don’t worry, there are practical ways to ease your symptoms and enjoy the season. Why Are Allergies Worse in June? Seasonal allergies typically peak in late spring and early summer. That’s when trees, grasses, and weeds release large amounts of pollen into the air. In Toronto, the main allergy triggers in June include: Grass pollen (Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, timothy) Tree pollen (oak, maple, birch, still lingering from spring) Weeds (early bloomers like plantain and lamb’s quarters) Dry, windy days stir up the most pollen, so if you’ve been sneezing more lately, it’s not just in your head. Common Symptoms to Watch For If you’ve got allergies, your immune system reacts to pollen like a dangerous invader. The result? Symptoms like: Runny or stuffy nose Sneezing fits Itchy eyes, nose, or throat Red, watery eyes Fatigue or irritability (yes, allergies can make you grumpy too) How to Fight Back: Tips to Reduce Symptoms Here are a few pharmacist-approved ways to keep your symptoms in check this June: Start Your Allergy Meds EarlyAllergy medications work best when taken before symptoms start. Don’t wait until you’re sneezing uncontrollably. Options include: Antihistamines (like loratadine or cetirizine): Great for sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Nasal corticosteroids (like fluticasone or mometasone): Excellent for nasal congestion and overall control. Eye drops: Target itchy, watery eyes directly. Your pharmacist can help you choose the right combination based on your symptoms. Wash the Day OffPollen clings to skin, hair, and clothing. After spending time outside: Shower and change your clothes Avoid bringing outdoor clothing into your bedroom Wash your face and rinse your eyes with clean water Keep Windows ClosedAs tempting as it is to let the breeze in, open windows invite pollen into your home. Instead, use fans or air conditioning with a clean filter to keep cool. Check the Pollen ForecastApps and websites like The Weather Network offer daily pollen counts. On high-pollen days, consider limiting outdoor activity, especially in the morning when pollen is usually highest. Try Natural OptionsSome people find relief with: Saline nasal rinses: Helps flush out pollen and reduce congestion HEPA filters: For your home, especially bedrooms Local honey (though evidence is limited, some swear by it!) Always check with a pharmacist before trying new remedies. Natural doesn’t always mean safe for everyone. When to Talk to Your Pharmacist If you’ve tried everything and your symptoms are still interfering with daily life, talk to us. We can: Recommend stronger OTC or prescription treatments Check for medication interactions Help you identify whether it’s allergies or a cold At Dundas West Pharmacy, we’re here to make allergy season more manageable, so you can enjoy the sunny days ahead. Don’t Let Allergies Rule Your Summer Seasonal allergies may be a fact of life, but they don’t have to take over your summer. With the right approach and a bit of planning, you can stay ahead of your symptoms and enjoy everything June has to offer, minus the sneezes. Stop by Dundas West Pharmacy in Etobicoke or give us a call. Whether you need personalized advice, allergy relief products, or just someone to talk to about your symptoms, we’re always here to help. Latest Articles June 15, 2025 Allergy Season in Full Bloom: Tips to Breathe Easier May 29, 2025 Spring Cleaning Your Medicine Cabinet: What to Toss & What to Keep May 14, 2025 How to Refill Prescriptions Hassle-Free at Dundas West Pharmacy April 28, 2025 Stress Relief in Etobicoke: Simple Tips for a Calmer Life April 15, 2025 IBS Explained: A Guide to Symptoms, Treatment, and Relief Categories Health (38) Seniors (10)

WP Admin Canin June 15, 2025

Health

Spring Cleaning Your Medicine Cabinet: What to Toss & What to Keep

Over time, it’s easy for your medicine cabinet to turn into a collection of half-used products, outdated prescriptions, and expired medications. While it may seem harmless to hang on to “just-in-case” items, an overstocked or outdated cabinet can lead to confusion, or worse, accidental misuse. At Dundas West Pharmacy, we want to help you stay safe, organized, and prepared. Here are five simple steps to refresh your medicine cabinet the right way 1. Start by Emptying Everything Take out every item: prescriptions, over-the-counter products, ointments, and supplies. Lay them out on a clean surface. Seeing everything at once makes it easier to sort through and identify what no longer belongs. 2. Check Expiry Dates Inspect each product carefully. Discard anything that is expired, especially liquids, eye drops, or medications that have changed in colour, texture, or smell. When in doubt, it’s better to be safe and let it go. 3. Discard “Just in Case” Medications Avoid holding on to leftover antibiotics, old prescriptions, or one-off pills. If a medication is no longer prescribed to you or has been sitting unused for a long time, it’s best to remove it. Medications should only be taken under current medical guidance. 4. Keep Only What’s Necessary After sorting, hold onto: Medications you’re actively using Over-the-counter essentials (pain relievers, allergy meds, etc.) First aid basics, like bandages and antiseptics Prescriptions that are current and have valid refills Not sure about something? Bring it to the pharmacy. We’ll review it with you. 5. Dispose of Medications Properly Never flush medications or throw them in the trash. Bring expired or unused medications to Dundas West Pharmacy. We offer free and environmentally safe medication disposal—no appointment needed. 6. Restock Mindfully Now that you’ve cleared space, consider what you truly need. Whether it’s seasonal allergy relief, first-aid supplies, or updated everyday essentials, our team can help you choose the right products to keep on hand. 5. Let’s Get Started Stop by Dundas West Pharmacy to refresh your medicine cabinet with confidence. We’re here to help you stay safe, organized, and well-prepared. Dundas West Pharmacy (416) 368-9143 Proudly serving the Etobicoke community Latest Articles May 29, 2025 Spring Cleaning Your Medicine Cabinet: What to Toss & What to Keep May 14, 2025 How to Refill Prescriptions Hassle-Free at Dundas West Pharmacy April 28, 2025 Stress Relief in Etobicoke: Simple Tips for a Calmer Life April 15, 2025 IBS Explained: A Guide to Symptoms, Treatment, and Relief March 14, 2025 How Jumping Into ‘Spring Forward’ Affects Sleep and Well-Being Categories Health (37) Seniors (10)

WP Admin Canin May 29, 2025

Health

How to Refill Prescriptions Hassle-Free at Dundas West Pharmacy

Managing your medications shouldn’t be stressful, especially when it comes to refills. At Dundas West Pharmacy, we’ve streamlined the process to make it quick, easy, and efficient. Whether you’re a returning patient or visiting us for the first time, here’s everything you need to know about refilling your prescriptions. 1. Choose the Method That Works Best for You We offer several convenient options for requesting a refill: By phone: Call us at (416) 368-9143 with your prescription details. Online: Submit your request through our website or online refill portal. In person: Stop by the pharmacy—we’re always happy to help. If you’re a regular patient, your information may already be on file, which means your refill could be ready for quick pickup. 2. What to Bring To ensure a smooth refill process, please have the following ready: Your prescription number (found on the label or bottle) A valid health card or form of identification The name of the medication (or bring the original container if you’re unsure) 3. Plan Ahead We recommend requesting refills a few days before your medication runs out. This allows time for any necessary doctor approvals or inventory updates, helping you avoid unnecessary delays. Need help staying on track? Ask us about automatic refill reminders—we’ll notify you when it’s time for your next one. 4. Why Choose Dundas West Pharmacy? Patients in Etobicoke choose us for a reason: Fast turnaround: Most refills are ready the same day. Personal service: Our pharmacists take the time to answer your questions. Community-focused care: We’re an independent pharmacy that puts people first—not a corporate chain. 5. Let’s Get Started Refilling your prescription shouldn’t feel like a chore. Call us, visit in person, or request your refill online. Our team is here to make the process easy and stress-free. Dundas West Pharmacy (416) 368-9143 Proudly serving the Etobicoke community Latest Articles May 14, 2025 How to Refill Prescriptions Hassle-Free at Dundas West Pharmacy April 28, 2025 Stress Relief in Etobicoke: Simple Tips for a Calmer Life April 15, 2025 IBS Explained: A Guide to Symptoms, Treatment, and Relief March 14, 2025 How Jumping Into ‘Spring Forward’ Affects Sleep and Well-Being February 28, 2025 How to Manage Your Family’s Medications: Tips for Keeping Track of Prescriptions Categories Health (36) Seniors (10)

WP Admin Canin May 14, 2025

Dundas West Pharmacy

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Tag: Anxiety

Four Natural Ways to Manage Stress This Summer Without the Crash

Hot Weather, Cold Meds: How to Store Your Medication Safely in Summer

What It Actually Means When the Label Says “Take with Food”?

Allergy Season in Full Bloom: Tips to Breathe Easier

Spring Cleaning Your Medicine Cabinet: What to Toss & What to Keep

How to Refill Prescriptions Hassle-Free at Dundas West Pharmacy

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