Nathan's Wellness Pharmacy & Apothecary has opened in Boothbay Harbor, at the Meadow Mall, in the last available space next to Ice Cream Factory on the left and Key Bank on the right. Andrew K. Robertson is the pharmacist. His Argentinean wife, Maria, is a U.S. certified foreign medical graduate and his business partner. Together they are planning a unique and independent pharmacy on the peninsula, as an alternative to large chains.

Upon entering, you notice a quietness and calm enhanced by low lighting. Select products to aid in health and wellness, many Maine made, are orderly placed on the shelves. There are special vitamins and supplements and some more common over-the-counter meds. Antique furniture from a bygone apothecary in Bar Harbor are arranged to please the eye and provide surfaces for other displays.

Robertson said, “Nathan's will be a 'compounding' pharmacy, which means the customer's experience will be very personal, resulting from their doctor and pharmacist working hand in hand with them, to make sure they receive exactly what they need.” Robertson said medications can be adjusted to be more effective and compatible to individuals. He said this approach can also be followed in the treatment of pets. Medications can be recreated as creams to be rubbed on a pet's ears for absorption or as flavorful treats to reduce the ordeal of administering them, he said.

Robertson intends to promote food as medicine. “I can offer basic advice on nutrition for each person, working with nutritionists and doctors to determine what will be best for them.” The shop will have spices, tea and, eventually, a refreshment bar offering smoothies and other drinks in a lounge area.

The pharmacy is named in honor of Robertson’s younger brother Nathan. Robertson was in a pre-med program at the University of Rhode Island when Nathan, then 16, was diagnosed with an extremely rare form of cancer. Robertson watched as a team of doctors and a pharmacist tried for four years to save Nathan. Robertson switched from pre-med to pharmaceutical medicine, believing this was the best way for him to help others.

All prescriptions can be filled at Nathan's. Most insurance coverages will be available soon. Hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday by appointment. For more information call (207) 315-2280.