Pillars Pharmacy

10/10/2026

A kind reminder to our valued patrons that we will be closed this Monday, October 12th, for Thanksgiving. We are so grateful to be a part of your healthcare team and look forward to supporting you throughout this fall season!

10/09/2026

Who is eligible for the free vaccine?
✅ Adults aged 75 and older
✅ First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals aged 60 and older

Want to secure your spot?
Contact Pillars Pharmacy today to join our official call-back list. We’ll notify you as soon as we're ready to book your appointment! 📲✨

09/28/2026

A kind reminder to our valued patrons that we will be closed on Wednesday, September 30th in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

We will resume regular operating hours on Thursday, October 1st. Thank you for your continued support!

09/23/2026

Painful, tingling rash? Your BC pharmacist can help! ⚡️🩹

Shingles requires quick action, and timing is everything. In BC, pharmacists can assess shingles (herpes zoster) and prescribe antiviral treatment directly—saving you a trip to the clinic! 🩺💊

Here is what you need to know about the BC Minor Ailments Service (MACS):

📌 Quick Facts

⏱️ Time-Sensitive: Antiviral treatments are most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing.

💳 MSP Covered: Assessment services are fully covered for BC residents with valid MSP.

📍 Fast Access: Drop in or book online at your local pharmacy for immediate care.

💊 Types of Treatments Available

Oral Antivirals: Prescription pills (like valacyclovir or famciclovir) to stop the virus from replicating, shorten the outbreak, and lower the risk of long-term nerve pain.

Symptom Management: OTC pain relievers, calamine, or cool compresses to soothe burning and itching.

Vaccine Consultation: Information on the Shingrix vaccine to prevent future recurrences once recovered.

🎯 Is a Pharmacist Assessment Right for You?

✅ Appropriate for Pharmacist Care:

A new rash characterized by painful, fluid-filled blisters appearing in a band or patch on one side of the body.

Rash appeared within the last 72 hours (or new blisters are still forming).

Age 18 or older with typical shingles symptoms (tingling, burning, localized pain).

❌ When Doctor/NP Referral is Needed:

Rash located on or near the face, eyes, or tip of the nose (risk of vision complications).

Rash spreading widely across both sides of the body or involving multiple body areas.

Severe, unmanageable pain or accompanying neurological symptoms (e.g., confusion, weakness).

Individuals who are immunocompromised (e.g., undergoing chemotherapy, taking biologics/immunosuppressants).

Pregnant individuals or anyone under 18 years old.

📲 Notice a suspicious rash or localized burning? Don't wait—visit your local pharmacy right away to get assessed and start treatment fast!

09/19/2026

Severe monthly cramps holding you back? Your BC pharmacist can help! 🌸

Painful periods shouldn't interrupt your life. In BC, pharmacists can assess dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps) and prescribe targeted pain relief directly! 🩺💊

Here is what you need to know about the BC Minor Ailments Service (MACS):

📌 Quick Facts

📍 Direct Access: Skip the clinic wait—get assessed and treated at your local pharmacy.

💳 MSP Covered: Assessments are fully covered for BC residents with valid MSP.

🗓️ Proactive Care: Consult a pharmacist before your next cycle so you are prepared.

💊 Types of Treatments Available

Prescription NSAIDs: High-strength anti-inflammatories (e.g., naproxen, higher-dose ibuprofen) that target prostaglandins—the primary cause of uterine cramping.

Hormonal Contraceptives: Discussion or prescribing of options (like birth control pills) to reduce period pain long-term.

OTC Guidance: Optimized dosing for non-prescription options and non-drug relief strategies (heat therapy, supplements).

🎯 Is a Pharmacist Assessment Right for You?

✅ Appropriate for Pharmacist Care:

Mild-to-moderate primary dysmenorrhea (cramps in lower abdomen/back around period start).

Monthly cramps disrupting daily routines, work, or school.

OTC pain relievers aren't offering adequate relief.

Renewing or adjusting a previously effective prescription.

❌ When Doctor/NP Referral is Needed:

Severe, sudden, or sharp pain different from usual cramps.

Cramping with unusual heavy bleeding, fever, or abnormal discharge.

Suspected underlying conditions (endometriosis, fibroids, PID).

Pain during sexual in*******se or pain outside your cycle.

First-time severe cramps starting after age 25.

📲 Don't suffer through your cycle. Stop by your local pharmacy or book an assessment online today!

09/16/2026

Feeling that familiar tingling? Your local BC pharmacist can help! ⚡👄

Don't wait days for a clinic appointment when a cold sore strikes. In British Columbia, pharmacists can assess and prescribe antiviral treatments directly for cold sores! 🩺💊

Here is a quick breakdown of how the BC Minor Ailments and Contraception Service (MACS) works for cold sores:

📌 Quick Facts
⏱️ Timing Matters: Antiviral treatments work best when started at the very first sign of symptoms (the "tingle" stage).

💳 Covered Service: Minor ailment assessments are covered for BC residents with a valid MSP card.

📍 Fast Access: Walk in or book online at your local pharmacy to start treatment immediately.

🧴 Types of Treatments Available
Depending on your symptoms and history, a pharmacist can prescribe or recommend:

Oral Antivirals: Prescription pills (like valacyclovir) that target the virus internally to shorten outbreak duration and reduce pain.

Topical Antivirals: Prescription creams applied directly to the affected area.

Symptom Relief: Over-the-counter options for pain management, lip protection, and healing support.

🎯 Is a Pharmacist Assessment Right for You?
✅ Appropriate for Pharmacist Care:

Early stage outbreak (tingling, itching, burning, or small blisters appearing around the lips/mouth).

History of recurrent cold sores (herpes labialis).

Seeking early intervention to speed up healing time and reduce severity.

❌ When Doctor/NP Referral is Needed (Not Appropriate):

Lesions located inside the mouth, near the eyes, or on other areas of the body.

Severe, widespread, or unusually large sores.

Outbreaks accompanied by high fever or confusion.

Immune system compromise (e.g., undergoing chemotherapy, living with HIV, taking immunosuppressive medications).

Sores that fail to heal after 14 days of treatment.

📲 Notice a tingle starting? Drop by your local pharmacy right away to get assessed and start treatment fast!

09/14/2026

Dealing with breakouts? Your local BC pharmacist can help! 💡✨

Did you know you can now consult a pharmacist in British Columbia to get a prescription for acne treatment—no doctor’s visit required? 🩺💊

Here is what you need to know about getting acne care through the BC Minor Ailments and Contraception Service (MACS):

📌 Quick Facts
📍 Accessible Care: BC pharmacists can assess mild-to-moderate acne and prescribe treatment directly.

💳 Covered Service: The assessment is covered for BC residents with valid MSP.

⏱️ Fast & Convenient: Many pharmacies offer walk-in assessments or quick online booking.

🧴 Types of Treatments Available
Depending on your assessment, your pharmacist can prescribe or recommend:

Topical Antibiotics & Antimicrobial Creams: Help reduce bacteria and inflammation.

Topical Retinoids: Clear clogged pores and prevent new breakouts.

Combination Topicals: Dual-action gels or creams combining active ingredients for better results.

Over-the-Counter Options: Guidance on gentle cleansers, salicylic acid, and non-comedogenic moisturizers.

✅ When is Minor Ailment Assessment Appropriate?
Seeing a pharmacist is great for mild-to-moderate acne, including:

Whiteheads, blackheads, or mild red pimples on the face, chest, or back.

Breakouts that haven't responded well to over-the-counter products.

First-time prescription treatment or renewing/adjusting a previous prescription.

⚠️ Note: Severe acne (such as deep, painful cysts or severe scarring) or acne that doesn't improve with initial treatment will be referred to a doctor or nurse practitioner for specialized care.

📲 Ready to clear your skin? Drop by your local pharmacy or book an assessment online today!

09/14/2026

🎒 Back-to-School Season is Here! 📚

As routines get busier with school, sports, and work, taking care of your health shouldn't have to slow you down. That’s why over the coming weeks, we’re launching a new educational series on BC Minor Ailments and Contraception Services (MACS)!

Did you know that pharmacists in BC can assess and prescribe for a wide range of common, everyday health conditions? From minor skin conditions and allergies to cold sores and uncomplicated UTIs, we can help you get the care you need—saving you a trip to the clinic or emergency room.

In this series, we’ll dive into specific conditions covered under MACS, highlighting how these time-saving, patient-centered services can support you and your family.

🏥 How to access care at Pillars Pharmacy:
Whether you prefer to plan ahead or need quick care on the go, we’ve got you covered:
✅ Book online for a scheduled appointment at your convenience

✅ Walk-ins are always welcome!

Stay tuned for our upcoming posts, and empower yourself with knowledge! 💡

📍 Pillars Pharmacy | 3030 Skaha Lake Rd, Penticton

📱 Follow us so you don't miss a post in the series!

09/06/2026

08/12/2026

Leaving your home is stressful enough without having to worry about your medications. Let us help where we can. 250-488-9360