For most healthy adults, a daily cup of coffee is nothing to feel guilty about. Large studies have linked moderate, habitual coffee drinking with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. But if you’re watching your cholesterol, one detail matters more than most people realize: how your coffee is brewed.
(more…)St. John’s Wort Drug Interactions: What to Know Before You Take It
At Centrum Pharmacy, we believe that “natural” does not automatically mean “safe for everyone.” Our pharmacists are extensively trained in the use of vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and natural health supplements, helping patients understand how supplements may affect existing medical conditions, prescription and over-the-counter medications, chronic diseases, pregnancy and breastfeeding, mental health conditions, and treatment outcomes.
(more…)Statins May Lower Dementia and Heart Attack Risk in Older Adults, New Studies Find
Statins are already one of the most widely prescribed medications for lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Two newly published studies suggest their benefits for older adults may go further than previously understood.
(more…)Alzheimer’s Awareness Month: Caring for You and Your Family at Every Stage of Life
Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and World Alzheimer’s Day are a time to increase understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease, and highlight steps we can all take to protect our brain health.
In Canada, more than 750,000 people are currently living with dementia, and that number is expected to rise significantly over the coming years. While age is the biggest risk factor, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging—and early awareness makes a real difference.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. It develops slowly and worsens over time, eventually interfering with daily activities and independence.
Early symptoms may include:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Difficulty planning or solving problems
- Confusion with time or place
- Changes in mood, personality, or judgment
- Trouble finding words or following conversations
Recognizing these early signs can lead to earlier diagnosis, better symptom management, and improved quality of life.
The Role of Brain Health in Prevention
While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, research shows that lifestyle choices can help reduce risk and slow cognitive decline.
Key brain-healthy habits include:
- Regular physical activity
- A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats
- Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol
- Staying socially and mentally active
- Getting adequate sleep and managing stress
How Your Pharmacy Team Can Help
Pharmacists play an important role in supporting patients and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease. This may include:
- Reviewing medications for interactions or side effects that affect memory
- Supporting medication adherence
- Providing guidance on supplements linked to brain health
- Offering caregiver support and education
If you or a loved one has concerns about memory changes, your Centrum Pharmacist can be a helpful first point of contact.
Supporting Families, Building Understanding
Alzheimer’s disease affects entire families, not just individuals. Compassion, patience, and support make a difference—whether you are a caregiver, a friend, or a neighbour.
This Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, on World Alzheimer’s Day, and every day in between, let’s continue caring for one another, supporting families, and prioritizing brain health at every stage of life.
More Reading About Alzheimer’s
Beyond Amyloid: New Alzheimer’s Drug Targets Tau Protein and Offers Hope for Future Treatments
Could GLP-1 Drugs Protect the Brain?
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Caring for Your Family Since 1999Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
Beyond Amyloid: New Alzheimer’s Drug Targets Tau Protein and Offers Hope for Future Treatments
For decades, Alzheimer’s research has focused heavily on one protein: amyloid. Newer medications such as lecanemab (Leqembi) and donanemab (Kisunla) have shown that removing amyloid plaques from the brain can modestly slow cognitive decline in some people with early Alzheimer’s disease.
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Acne vulgaris is one of the most common skin conditions affecting Canadians, particularly teenagers and young adults. According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, more than 80% of acne sufferers in Canada are between the ages of 12 and 24. While acne is often considered a normal part of adolescence, it can have a significant impact on self-esteem, confidence, and quality of life.
(more…)Ashwagandha Supplements Under Review: What Patients Should Know About a Possible Risk of Liver Injury
Ashwagandha is one of the most popular natural health products used to help manage stress, support energy levels, and promote overall well-being. However, Health Canada has recently completed a safety review examining a possible link between oral ashwagandha products and rare cases of liver injury (hepatotoxicity).
(more…)Happy Independent Pharmacy Day from Centrum Pharmacy
Independent Pharmacy Day is a chance to recognize pharmacies like Centrum Pharmacy: locally owned, not answering to a head office, and free to make decisions based on what’s best for our patients rather than a corporate playbook.
(more…)How to Dispose of Sharps and Needles Safely
If you or someone in your household uses insulin needles, lancets, an EpiPen, or any other sharp medical device, you already know they can’t just go in the trash. Here’s what actually counts as a “sharp,” why it matters, and the easiest way to get rid of a full container.
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