24-Hour Pharmacies in Canada: Emergency Prescription Guide
When you need a prescription filled at midnight or on a holiday, knowing where to find a 24-hour pharmacy can make all the difference. Here is your guide to late-night options across Canada.
When You Need a Pharmacy After Hours
Medical emergencies do not wait for business hours. Whether you have a child with a sudden fever, a new prescription from an emergency room visit, or you have simply run out of a critical medication, finding an open pharmacy late at night can be stressful. Here is what you need to know about 24-hour pharmacy options across Canada.
24-Hour Pharmacy Options by Chain
Shoppers Drug Mart
Shoppers Drug Mart operates the largest network of 24-hour pharmacies in Canada. Not every location is 24 hours, but major cities typically have several.
| City | Number of 24-Hour Locations (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Toronto | 15 - 20 |
| Vancouver | 5 - 8 |
| Calgary | 4 - 6 |
| Ottawa | 5 - 7 |
| Montreal | 8 - 12 (as Pharmaprix) |
| Edmonton | 4 - 6 |
| Winnipeg | 3 - 4 |
Rexall
Rexall has limited 24-hour locations, primarily in Ontario. Most Rexall stores close by 9 PM or 10 PM.
London Drugs
London Drugs does not offer 24-hour pharmacy service. Most locations close by 9 PM.
Walmart and Costco
Neither Walmart nor Costco pharmacies operate 24 hours. Walmart pharmacies typically close by 9 PM, and Costco by 6 PM.
How to Find a 24-Hour Pharmacy Near You
Method 1: Shoppers Drug Mart Store Locator
Visit the Shoppers Drug Mart website, enter your postal code, and filter by "24 hours." This is the most reliable way to find a late-night pharmacy.
Method 2: Google Maps
Search "24 hour pharmacy near me" on Google Maps. It will show open pharmacies based on your current location and the time of your search.
Method 3: Call 811
Most provinces operate a health information line at 811. Nurses on staff can direct you to the nearest open pharmacy.
Method 4: Check TransparentMedz
TransparentMedz includes pharmacy hours in its listings, making it easy to find nearby options that are currently open.
What to Know Before Your Late-Night Visit
Bring These Items
- Your prescription (paper or electronic — confirm with the pharmacy)
- Photo ID (required for controlled substances)
- Insurance card (if applicable; after-hours claims process normally)
- List of current medications (helps the pharmacist check for interactions)
Expect Longer Wait Times
24-hour pharmacies often operate with reduced overnight staff. A prescription that takes 15 minutes during the day may take 30 to 45 minutes at 2 AM. Plan accordingly.
Limited Stock After Hours
Some medications may not be in stock during overnight hours. Common medications like antibiotics, pain relievers, and blood pressure drugs are usually available. Specialty or less common drugs may not be.
Emergency Alternatives When No Pharmacy Is Open
Hospital Pharmacy
If you are in a medical emergency, hospital pharmacies can dispense medications around the clock. Note that they typically only fill prescriptions written by their own emergency department.
Emergency Prescription From a Pharmacist
In most Canadian provinces, pharmacists can provide an emergency supply of medication without a prescription if you have taken the drug before. This is typically a few days' worth — enough to get you through until you can see your doctor.
| Province | Emergency Supply Allowed? | Typical Supply |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | Yes | Up to 3 days |
| British Columbia | Yes | Up to 72 hours |
| Alberta | Yes | Up to 72 hours |
| Quebec | Yes | Varies |
| Manitoba | Yes | Up to 72 hours |
Telehealth Services
Services like Maple and Tia Health offer virtual doctor visits 24/7. A doctor can write a new prescription electronically and send it to the pharmacy of your choice for morning pickup.
Prevention: Avoiding After-Hours Pharmacy Trips
The best strategy is to never need a late-night pharmacy visit in the first place:
Use TransparentMedz to compare pharmacies in your area, including their hours, so you know your options before an emergency arises.
Ready to save on your prescriptions?
Compare prices across Canadian pharmacies and find the lowest cost for your medication.
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