The Co-operative Pharmacy in Clayton-le-Moors has extended its Ramadan health service by offering a new pocket-sized guide to help customers have a healthy Ramadan.

The guide is now available from the Pickup Street chemist with specially tailored health tips, including advice on managing minor ailments.

Although Muslims who are ill can be exempt from fasting, many continue to observe the fast. This can mean that medicines may not be taken at the correct time intervals, not taken at all, or their effectiveness could be altered.

The pharmacist will ensure that if the patient needs to change the times they take their medicines, that they continue to manage their condition effectively and safely.

The pharmacy can also help those who are looking to stop smoking, an ideal time of year for Muslims to consider stopping smoking as they will already be abstaining during daylight hours to fulfil fasting obligations.

Cathy Cox, The Co-operative Pharmacy’s primary care services manager said: “We would urge Muslims fasting during Ramadan who take regular prescribed medication, as well as those who wish to stop smoking, to see one of our pharmacists for advice.”

The guide is available from 84 Co-operative Pharmacy branches in England and Wales.