Frequently Asked Questions

Switching prescriptions to Helix Pharmacy is easy. Most medication refills can be transferred simply by calling us at Helix Pharmacy or submitting a request from the main page. We will collect a few bits of personal information and then we will take care of contacting your previous pharmacy to facilitate the transfer. Please note that some medications cannot be transferred by law, please ask for details.

Most prescriptions can be filled within 15minutes. Some prescriptions, however will take longer such as in the case of special orders for rare medications or in the cases where we may need to intervene on or clarify information with your prescriber. At all times we endeavor to provide a clear and reasonable estimate of the time that we will need to attend to your needs.

Compounded medications can take a little longer – anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the formulation and supply of ingredients. We will always provide our best estimate of when your Compounded medication will be ready for pickup.  

A "brand name" medication is one produced and marketed by the company that in most cases developed that medication and brought it to market. These companies are given a set time limit on their patents and after that time lapses, generic manufacturers will produce versions that are less costly. In most cases the generic version is equally effective. Canada has a very robust and safe drug supply chain and generic medications are considered to be very safe. There are some few instances where a brand name medication may be better for you but we will always be available to discuss your options with you. 

Prescription drugs do indeed expire. We document the expiry of your drugs in our system at the time of dispensing and can recall that information at your request. Different medications have differing shelf lives, please check with us if you are not sure whether your medications will be safe to use. 

Disposing of medications is best done by emptying the pills or capsules into a bag and returning them to the pharmacy for safe destruction. Please leave liquid medications in their original containers. Don't forget to remove your name from the bottles first!

By and large most prescription medications should be stored at room temperature (average 23C or 73F). Some medications require refrigeration but you will be advised of these. Medications generally do not do well with high humidity so the bathroom or near the stove is actually NOT the optimal location.

 Bringing your old, unused, or expired medications back to Helix Pharmacy in Stayner is a safe, responsible, and environmentally conscious way to dispose of them. Here's why it's important:

• Safety: Medications left at home can pose a serious risk, especially to children, pets, and vulnerable adults. Accidental ingestion can lead to poisoning, overdose, or other harmful effects. Returning them to us ensures they are stored securely and disposed of properly, preventing accidental access.
• Preventing Misuse and Diversion: Old medications, particularly controlled substances, can be targets for misuse or diversion. By bringing them back to the pharmacy, you help prevent these medications from falling into the wrong hands and contributing to potential harm in our community.
• Protecting the Environment: Flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the garbage can contaminate our water supply and harm the environment. Wastewater treatment plants are not always equipped to remove pharmaceutical compounds effectively. Pharmacies follow strict protocols for the safe and environmentally sound disposal of medications, often through incineration.
• Compliance and Best Practices: Pharmacies are designated collection sites for unused medications and adhere to regulations set by health authorities and environmental agencies. Returning your medications to us ensures you are following best practices for disposal.
• It's Easy and Convenient: Helix Pharmacy in Stayner offers a convenient and free service for medication disposal. Simply bring your unwanted medications to our pharmacy during our operating hours, and our staff will handle them safely and confidentially.

Don't let old medications become a hazard. Protect your loved ones, your community, and the environment by bringing them back to Helix Pharmacy in Stayner for safe disposal.

 We accept most prescription and over-the-counter medications in their original containers or sealed bags. If you have any questions about what you can return, please don't hesitate to call us at 249-220-0344 or speak to our friendly staff when you visit us at 7460 County Rd 91, Stayner, Ontario.