the green dispensary
... for your health, your children's health and the health of the environment.

Will government changes affect you?

Cold & flu medication!


The Australian Government has been phasing in new measures affecting the availability of cold and fl u medications that contain pseudoephedrine. The first stage was introduced in January 2006. As it stands, a product that contains pseudoephedrine must be sold to the patient only by a pharmacist.

On April 1st 2006 the second stage came into force - certain products containing greater quantities of pseudo-ephedrine need a prescription for supply. However, as winter approaches, there is no need to worry unduly - The Green Dispensary can help. There ARE alternative products available over the counter which may be appropriate for you and your family. For example, products containing phenylephrine may be recommended in all conditions where pseudoephedrine was appropriate. In the best interests of your health and to assist you in finding the best medicine, The Green Dispensary may ask you some simple questions about your symptoms. Thank you for your understanding.

Vitamin D

Deficiency can lead to bone fracture


Vitamin D is a key player in bone building. Vitamin D is essential for calcium and phosphorus transport from the intestine into the blood plasma. It decreases excretion of calcium and phosphorus from the kidneys and it facilitates mineralisation of bones. Vitamin D requires ultraviolet light [sunlight] to synthesize in the skin - hence deficiency is more common in winter months.

As we age, our capacity to produce Vitamin D reduces. Strong evidence is accumulating that Vitamin D and calcium can help to reduce fracture due to fragile bones.

Vitamin D production can be supplemented using off-the-shelf products, however a new high dose, once-a-month oral treatment is also available from your local Green Dispensary pharmacy - it is only available on doctor's prescription. This high dose treatment may be of use when the patient compliance is an issue.

Consult your family doctor or The Green Dispensary pharmacist about Vitamin D and the potential benefits of Vitamin D supplementation.