Diabetes occurs when the body isn’t able to produce enough insulin or is unable to use it to convert sugar into energy. The result is a spike in blood sugar (the amount of sugar in the blood) and over the long term, this could result in a higher risk of heart disease and kidney failure.

830,000 Quebecers live with diabetes, or approximately 10% of the population.*

*Source: Diabetes Québec.

Symptoms

Fatigue, drowsiness
Increase in volume and frequency of urination
Intense thirst
Exaggerated hunger
Unexplained weight loss
Blurred vision
Slow wound healing
Bladder and genitalia infections
Tingling in fingers or feet
Irritability

Types

Type 1 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes

Gestational diabetes (occurs during pregnancy)

Less common types:

Secondary diabetes as a result of taking medication

Secondary diabetes as a result of certain illnesses

MODY diabetes (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young)

LADA diabetes (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults)

Complications

Nephropathy (kidneys)
Retinopathy (eyes)
Neuropathy (nervous system)
Heart attack
Hypertension
Arteriosclerosis
Stroke
Sleep apnea
Capsulitis
Erectile dysfunction
Yeast infection
Urinary infection
Gum disease

Home delivery

Can’t make it to your pharmacy? Get your medication delivered for free.*

*Certain restrictions or conditions apply.

Learn more

Generic drugs

Whenever possible, your pharmacist will suggest replacing your brand name drug with a generic drug, which is just as reliable and effective, only more affordable.

Learn more

Medication list

Ask your pharmacist for an up-to-date list of your medication and allergies. They’ll also give you a handy folder to keep it in so you can show the list to your doctor or emergency services if needed.

Learn more

Your prescriptions are ready!

With the “It’s ready!” notification service, you’ll be instantly notified by email or text message when your prescriptions are available for pick-up.

Learn more

An important message from your pharmacist owners affiliated with Jean Coutu*

Selection of products offered by your pharmacist

Diabetes

Glycemia

Type 2 diabetes

Diabetes: made-to-measure nutrition

It is essential to take good care of your contact lenses every day to keep them clean, comfortable and safe. Read

Diabetes

Nutrition

Carbohydrates

The effects of sugar on health—myths and realities

True or not, a number of health effects have been attributed to sugar. It's time to distinguish between myths and realities in order to make informed choices. Read

Sugar

Nutrition

Calories

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels are too low. It’s most common among diabetics who inject insulin or take oral diabetes medicine, but it can happen to anyone if they haven’t eaten in a while or after a meal high in carbohydrates. Read

Diabetes

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycaemia prevention

Virtues of the DASH diet

The DASH diet is a valuable ally in managing blood pressure by focusing on a high intake of fruits and vegetables and by leaving behind saturated fats and cholesterol. Learn more about it. Read

Diet

Diabetes

Blood pressure

Technology in support of diabetics

Whether you are an expert or a novice with regard to electronics technology, it's important to know that it can help you to better manage your diabetes. Read

Diabetes

Insulin

Glycemia

Nutrition Advice for Diabetics

Diet plays a central role in controlling blood sugar levels. Diabetics therefore need to eat balanced meals at regular intervals and try to distribute their carbohydrates throughout their three meals and snacks.

Beverages

Whether still or sparkling, water is always the best option to quench your thirst. Stay away from soft drinks, because they are often high in sugar or sweeteners, which should be avoided.

A Healthy and Varied Diet

Follow a healthy and varied diet that is rich in fibre (fruits and vegetables, whole grains…). Limit your consumption of added and complex sugars.

Physical activity

Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight will help reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications. To do this, reduce your calorie intake and increase your physical activity. This will also help you better control your blood sugar.