More than 580,000 Albertans live with diabetes. Most see their doctor a few times a year, but they see their pharmacist every month when they pick up medication. That regular contact makes your pharmacist one of the most accessible members of your diabetes care team. At Acme Drug Mart in Meadowlark, Edmonton, we use that access to help you stay on track between doctor visits.
What can an Alberta pharmacist do for diabetes?
Alberta pharmacists have the broadest scope of practice in Canada. For diabetes management, that includes:
- Prescribing and adjusting medications — renewing diabetes prescriptions, adjusting doses when blood sugar targets are not being met, and switching between equivalent medications when supply issues arise
- Ordering and interpreting lab tests — Alberta pharmacists can order A1C tests and fasting blood glucose panels to monitor your diabetes control without a separate doctor visit
- Comprehensive medication reviews — reviewing all your medications for interactions, side effects, and adherence challenges, billed to Alberta Health Care at no cost to you
- Insulin and device training — demonstrating proper injection technique, pen use, and blood glucose meter operation
- Blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring — diabetes increases cardiovascular risk, and your pharmacist monitors these markers at every review
Metformin: the medication most diabetics start with
Metformin remains the first-line medication for type 2 diabetes in Canada. It works by reducing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity. It does not cause hypoglycemia on its own and is weight-neutral or slightly weight-reducing.
Common side effects (nausea, diarrhea, stomach upset) typically improve within 2 to 4 weeks. Taking metformin with food helps. Extended-release formulations cause fewer GI side effects than immediate-release. If side effects persist, your pharmacist can discuss the switch with your doctor or adjust timing and dosage.
GLP-1 medications for diabetes and weight
GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic) and dulaglutide (Trulicity) are increasingly used for type 2 diabetes, particularly in patients who also need weight management. These injectable medications lower blood sugar, reduce appetite, and have cardiovascular benefits.
If you are considering a GLP-1 medication, our pharmacist can assess eligibility and initiate therapy in coordination with your doctor. Alberta pharmacists can prescribe these medications for patients who meet the clinical criteria.
Blood sugar monitoring: how often and what the numbers mean
Monitoring frequency depends on your treatment:
- Insulin users: typically test 2 to 4 times daily (before meals and at bedtime)
- Oral medications only: less frequent testing may be appropriate, often a few times per week
- Well-controlled on stable therapy: your pharmacist and doctor may recommend periodic checks rather than daily testing
Target ranges for most adults with type 2 diabetes: fasting blood glucose 4.0 to 7.0 mmol/L, and 2-hour post-meal glucose 5.0 to 10.0 mmol/L. Your targets may differ based on age, duration of diabetes, and other health conditions. A1C below 7.0% is the general goal, though individualized targets are common.
Hypoglycemia: what to watch for
Low blood sugar (below 4.0 mmol/L) can happen with insulin or sulfonylurea medications. Symptoms include shakiness, sweating, confusion, irritability, and hunger. Treatment is fast-acting glucose: 15 grams of carbohydrate (4 glucose tablets, 3/4 cup of juice, or 1 tablespoon of sugar), wait 15 minutes, retest. If still low, repeat.
If you experience frequent lows, tell your pharmacist. A dose adjustment may be needed, and we can coordinate that with your prescriber.
Medication reviews: free under Alberta Health Care
Alberta pharmacists are compensated by Alberta Health Care to conduct comprehensive medication reviews for patients with chronic conditions including diabetes. During a review, we assess:
- Whether each medication is still appropriate and at the right dose
- Potential drug interactions (diabetes patients often take 5 or more medications)
- Adherence challenges (timing, cost, side effects)
- Opportunities to simplify your regimen
- Whether you are meeting A1C and blood pressure targets
The review takes about 20 to 30 minutes in our private consultation room. We send a summary to your doctor with any recommendations. No cost to you.
Diabetic foot care and other referrals
Diabetes affects circulation and nerve sensation in the feet. We remind patients about annual foot exams, appropriate footwear, and signs of concern (numbness, non-healing sores, colour changes). We also screen for interactions with over-the-counter products that diabetic patients should avoid or use cautiously.
Free delivery for diabetes supplies
Test strips, lancets, insulin, and oral medications delivered to your door across Edmonton at no charge. Same-day delivery for orders placed before 3 PM. Sealed, unmarked packaging.
Walk in or call
(780) 443-0202. Unit 103, 15508 87 Ave NW, Meadowlark Place, Edmonton. Bring your blood glucose log and current medication list. We will review everything and make sure your diabetes management is on track.