Motherisk News: Motherisk Launches New Pilot Project with Shoppers Drug Mart

Toronto, November 1, 2009 - A new Motherisk Shoppers Drug Mart Pharmacist Helpline was launched on November 1, 2009 and will continue as a pilot project through July 31, 2010. During that time, Motherisk will operate a dedicated, toll-free helpline for the exclusive use of Shoppers' Drug Mart pharmacists, nationwide.

Supported by a gift from Shoppers Drug Mart, this Pilot Project will provide the latest information to Shoppers' pharmacists to help them counsel Shoppers customers on the risk or safety of prescription medications, and over-the-counter drugs during pregnancy and lactation.

Motherisk will continue to serve all Canadians through our other Helplines, clinic and website. For information, call these numbers, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST:

The Motherisk Info Line: 416-813-6780. Established in 1985, the Motherisk Info Line provides information about the risk or safety of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbal products, chemicals, x-rays, chronic diseases and infections during pregnancy and while nursing.

The Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy Helpline: 1-800-436-8477. Call for information about morning sickness and how to treat it.

Alcohol and Substance Use Helpline: 1-877-327-4636. Call for information about the fetal effects of alcohol, nicotine and drugs such as marijuana, cocaine and others.

HIV and HIV Treatment in Pregnancy: 1-888-246-5840. Call for information about the possible effects of HIV and HIV treatment during pregnancy.

Pregnant women may also be referred to the Motherisk Clinic in Toronto following exposure to known or suspected teratogens (substances that cause abnormalities in the developing fetus), new and unfamiliar drugs, chronic drug therapy or drugs of abuse. Clinic visits are by appointment only and can be booked by calling Motherisk at 416-813-6780.