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Country’s first online compounding pharmacy offers senior citizens more options

Published

2 years ago

August 7, 2023

The country’s population is aging. The number of seniors in the Philippines has more than doubled from 4.5 million 20 years ago to 9.2 million in 2020 to account for 8.5 percent of the population, up from just 5.9 percent previously. This percentage is projected by the Commission on Population and Development (Popcom) to reach 40 percent by 2035.

An aging population presents challenges, foremost of which are health concerns. The elderly are a vulnerable population, and so preventive healthcare solutions are necessary to ensure healthy aging. Considering the contributions the elderly have given to their family and the country during their prime, it is only fair they age gracefully and live fully as they go through their golden years.

But with physical mobility a concern for many elderly and fear of contracting COVID-19 keeping many from going to their doctors for regular checkups, more accessible and modern options such as telemedicine and virtual consultations are increasingly being adopted. Many are also turning to personalized medications, which are viable and effective options for specific health concerns and wellness goals.

Apotheca Integrative Pharmacy, the first online compounding pharmacy in the Philippines, believes in utilizing the latest innovations to enable the elderly and those nearing senior age to have a healthy and graceful experience. From virtual consultation and prescription to seamless and secure delivery of compounded medications, AIP makes it easier for the elderly to have access to the vitamins, supplements and medicines they need without having to leave the comfort and safety of their homes.

Manage pain and aches

With age comes more wisdom and the occasional inexplicable pain and aches here and there. More than back and muscle aches, the elderly also become generally more sensitive and at risk of developing skin irritation, among others.

Common diseases associated with aging such as arthritis, diabetes and back pain can also be resolved using compounded medicines. AIP compounds prescription medications common for our elderly which includes Anti-depressant Drugs, Anti- Convulsant Drugs, Anesthetic Drugs and NSAID medications.

For one, AIP compounds Amitriptyline, a type of drug that can treat pain caused by nerve damage. Though initially created to treat anxiety and depression, this drug when used at a low dose can alleviate pain caused by arthritis, chronic neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia and back pain.

AIP also compounds Gabapentin, an anti-epileptic medication that diminishes pain transmission in damaged neurons by affecting glutamate receptors. It is best used for pain management caused by chronic neuropathic pain, diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, fibromyalgia and generalized vulvodynia.

Benzocaine offers mild pain control and is generally used for topical anesthesia. It works by blocking nerve signals in the body and provides a temporary numbing effects. Commonly used for pain management for sore throat, cold sores and teething as well as external vaginal itching and burning, benzocaine is not intended for prolonged application time or use.

For skin irritations and discomfort such as sunburn and minor rashes caused by insect bites, AIP can compound Lidocaine and Tetracaine. Lidocaine works by blocking pain signals at the skin’s nerve endings and helps reduce burning and sharp pain in specific overly sensitive skin areas. Tetracaine, is an amino-ester local anesthetic, is commonly used as a topical anesthetic for short procedures on the ears, nose and surface of the eye.

Repair and regulate hormonal imbalance

Growing old does come with a decline in physical and mental well-being due to hormonal changes and aging organs. This does not, however, mean having to live the rest of one’s life in discomfort or pain.

AIP offers specialized medicines for common health and wellness concerns such as irregular gall bladder activity, weakened immune system and overall well-being are available. The pharmacy’s Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) replicates hormones using natural resources to supplement the body with the hormones it lacks and needs. AIP compounds specific hormones based on patient requirements to ensure the compounded solution adapts to the individual’s bodily structure seamlessly.

Pregnenolone, one of the hormones that AIP compounds, may be considered a good brain enhancer. Besides improving memory and clarity of thought, it boosts vision and energy, even sexual enjoyment. Another hormone that AIP recommends for BHRT therapy is melatonin, which monitors circadian rhythm and induces drowsiness – useful for seniors who have difficulty sleeping or having an established sleep schedule.

Restore confidence

Hair thinning or loss is one of the drastic physical changes that comes with aging. Elderly males use hats to hide growing bald patches while women opt for shorter hairstyles, the changes in their crowning glory limiting their options and ultimately resulting in frustration and loss of confidence.

AIP can also compound hair loss treatments such as Minoxidil and Minoxidil combined with Finasteride, compounded formulations for treating hair loss. Minoxidil is an active ingredient used to increase hair density and revive follicles while Finasteride promotes scalp hair growth and prevents hair loss. This combination can come in topical solution or in whatever form the patient prefers.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can also be addressed by compounded medicine. Besides lifestyle changes, AIP compounds duo-mix, which contains two complementary drugs namely Papaverine and Phentolamine mixed into a sterile injection. It is traditionally done via self-injection. Tri-mix, considered to be the most powerful class of anti-ED agent, comprises Papaverine, Phentolamine and Alprostadil. It is administered through penile self-injection and can be used for a vast number of conditions other than ED.

All AIP compounded medications come in customizable dosages, forms, combinations and formulations and therefore can easily be adjusted to meet specific patient needs. This also minimizes side effects and risks of drug abuse and addiction. Allergies and sensitivities are considered per patient and can be discussed with a doctor over AIP’s website.

Give grandparents the golden years they deserve and visit Apotheca Integrative Pharmacy’s ecommerce platform for compound medications fit for their needs. Get to know more about compounding medicines and how personalized medicines can benefit elderly health.

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Sarap ng Pasko, Sarap ng Purefoods

Purefoods helps families celebrate cherished traditions, new additions this holiday season.

Published

4 weeks ago

December 19, 2025

ZestMag.com Staff

In a country of more than 7,600 islands, Christmas in the Philippines is celebrated in many ways, varying across the regions through traditions that have remained through generations, along with new iterations that reflect the growing diversity among Filipino families.

Today’s Christmas celebrations in Filipino households range from grand gatherings among extended families, along with OFW households, dual-income no kids (DINKs) couples, single parents, and same-gender partners who are marking the season in their own meaningful way. Through it all, the desire to gather, to share, and to connect remains at the heart of each celebration.

Feast for Filipino families

This holiday season, Purefoods recognizes both the traditions that have been passed down through generations, along with the new meaningful ones that we create along the way. Around the Noche Buena table, families remember the Christmases past, while embracing the present, and celebrating what brings them together.

Whether its recipes that have been handed down through many generations, or new dishes to celebrate the joy of togetherness, Purefoods provides a wide range of products to make every holiday meal more memorable.

As a legacy brand with generations-long trusted consistency in quality and taste, Purefoods products have long been a part of occasions that matter most to Filipino families. The different Purefoods products help make homecooked Noche Buena feasts easier and more enjoyable. What’s more, the products are easily available in supermarkets, groceries, and markets to support different regional traditions and unique family celebrations across the country.

As part of its mission to spread Christmas cheer, Purefoods turned the homecoming of OFWs into a full-blown holiday celebration this December, taking center stage at the newly refreshed Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 just as its new facilities officially opened. Seizing this landmark moment, the “Sarap ng Pasko, Sarap ng Purefoods” installation at the Arrival area and a dazzling LED display at the new Mezzanine Food Hall transformed the terminal into a festive gateway home, filling arrivals with warmth, joy, and inspiration to create new Christmas memories with their loved ones through food.

Food that is lovingly prepared and joyfully shared is at the core of every Christmas celebration. No matter how Filipino families celebrate, Purefoods helps bring the joy of the season to every table.

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Christmas reunions made more joyful with Magnolia Chicken Timplados, #SarapMadeEasy

Magnolia Chicken Timplados makes meals that are easy to prepare and comes in flavorful options, removing the stress out of meal preparation. Just cook and it’s ready to be served in minutes.

Published

2 months ago

December 1, 2025

ZestMag.com Staff

With the Christmas season in, one of the most anticipated moments for many people is the Christmas reunion – a time when family and friends gather to celebrate and reconnect. However, the idea of preparing a delicious Christmas feast can be overwhelming and can lead to stress. Between planning the menu, grocery shopping, and cooking, it’s easy to feel like the holidays are more about hustle than a joyful celebration.

That is why Magnolia Chicken Timplados makes meals that are easy to prepare and comes in flavorful options, removing the stress out of meal preparation. Just cook and it’s ready to be served in minutes! Whether it’s Fried Chicken or Smoked Pepper Roasted Chicken, it is made with quality, real chicken, that’s sure to win hearts at any Christmas reunion feast, bringing families and friends together over meals filled with joy, flavor, and festive warmth.

Fried Chicken: Magnolia Fried Chicken delivers golden, delicious and crispy goodness right to your Christmas table. A classic favorite because it is simple yet celebratory, Magnolia Fried Chicken captures the heart of Christmas cooking: togetherness, indulgence, and the joy of sharing something made with love. It is perfect for family feasts or holiday get-togethers with friends because it’s pre-marinated, just coat with breading and deep fry. It saves a lot of time and energy, keeping your cooking hassle-free.

Smoked Pepper Roasted Chicken: What better way to enjoy the holidays than by savoring an aromatic, hearty roasted chicken? Magnolia Smoked Pepper Roasted Chicken brings a classic favorite to an entirely new level! What makes it special is its bold yet balanced flavor – the smoky aroma mingling with sweet, caramelized skin, the sharp bite of pepper meeting the natural richness of roast chicken. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet sophisticated enough for entertaining guests. There’s no need to worry about the tiresome task of seasoning the chicken and marinating overnight, as it can be cooked straight in the oven or air fryer. It is a special delight for everyone to enjoy, especially during gatherings around the table with loved ones.

With ready to cook Magnolia Chicken Timplados, it’s possible to enjoy a delectable holiday meal without the chaos of traditional cooking. Sarap Super Moms and Timplanners can spend less time worrying about the kitchen, leaving more time to create happy and unforgettable moments to cherish with loved ones.

Lasapin ang #SarapMadeEasy meals this Christmas with Magnolia Chicken Timplados! #CountlessMomentsEndlessGoodness

To learn more about Magnolia Ready-to-Cook Chicken Timplados, visit magnoliachicken.com or follow Magnolia Chicken on social media.

Product Showcase

Sip the magic of Christmas with Seattle’s Best S’mores Ghirardelli Collection

Each drink captures the comforting spirit of Christmas with rich chocolate indulgence and a touch of sweetness that feels like a cozy holiday hug.

Published

2 months ago

November 12, 2025

ZestMag.com Staff

There’s something about S’mores that brings people together—melting chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and moments that feel like home. This holiday season, Seattle’s Best Coffee and Ghirardelli are turning that warmth into a cup with the S’mores Collection Made with Ghirardelli. Each drink captures the comforting spirit of Christmas with rich chocolate indulgence and a touch of sweetness that feels like a cozy holiday hug.

Starting November 2025, chocolate lovers can indulge in this limited-edition collection in Seattle’s Best Coffee stores nationwide and via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

What Makes the S’mores Collection Special?

A Taste of Comfort – Inspired by the familiar joy of S’mores, each drink blends marshmallow sweetness, velvety chocolate, and bold coffee warmth for that fireside feeling—no campfire needed.

Premium Collaboration – Made with Ghirardelli’s signature chocolate and Seattle’s Best bold espresso, delivering a smooth, indulgent coffee experience that feels festive and luxurious.

Crafted for Every Craving – From hot to iced to blended, there’s a S’mores drink for every holiday mood, perfect for sharing cozy moments or treating yourself to something special.

Find Your Perfect Holiday Match

Whether you’re sipping by the tree, catching up with friends, or gifting yourself a well-deserved break, there’s a S’mores Collection drink for every kind of Christmas craving.

Hot S’mores Ghirardelli – Cozy up with this comforting blend of Ghirardelli chocolate powder, rich espresso, and creamy marshmallow meringue, topped with a dark chocolate drizzle and crushed graham cracker. It’s Christmas warmth in a cup.

Iced S’mores Ghirardelli – A refreshing yet indulgent twist that combines bold espresso, Ghirardelli chocolate, and half & half over ice, finished with marshmallow meringue and a graham cracker crunch.

S’mores Javakula – A frozen holiday treat that blends Ghirardelli chocolate, marshmallow meringue, dark chocolate sauce, and graham cracker bits, perfect for cooling down while staying in the holiday spirit.

Make Your Holidays Sweeter

The Seattle’s Best Coffee x Ghirardelli S’mores Collection is available for a limited ti

me in all Seattle’s Best Coffee stores nationwide and via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

Indulge in the rich, chocolatey comfort of the holidays—warm, bold, and oh-so-delightful with every sip of Seattle’s Best Coffee’s S’mores Collection.