Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about comparing drug prices in Canada
About TransparentMedz
What is TransparentMedz?
TransparentMedz is a free tool that compares prescription drug prices across Canadian pharmacies. We show you the full breakdown — drug cost, pharmacy markup, and dispensing fee — so you can find the cheapest pharmacy for your medication.
Is TransparentMedz free to use?
Yes, TransparentMedz is 100% free to search and compare prices. No signup required. We also offer a premium plan ($2.99/month) with additional features like unlimited price alerts, AI pharmacist chat, and price history charts.
How does TransparentMedz get its prices?
Our prices come from three sources: automated scraping of pharmacy websites, provincial government drug formulary databases, and verified user submissions from real Canadians. All prices are verified before being published.
Does TransparentMedz collect my health data?
No. We never collect, store, or share any personal health information. We don't know what medications you take or what prescriptions you have. We simply show public pharmacy pricing information. We are fully PIPEDA compliant.
Understanding Drug Prices
Why do drug prices vary so much between pharmacies?
Drug prices in Canada are made up of three components: the drug ingredient cost (set by the manufacturer), the pharmacy markup (a percentage added by the pharmacy), and the dispensing fee (a flat fee charged each time you fill a prescription). While the drug cost is similar everywhere, markups and dispensing fees vary dramatically — from $4.49 at Costco to $12+ at some chains.
What is a dispensing fee?
A dispensing fee is a flat fee charged by the pharmacy each time you fill a prescription. It covers the pharmacist's time to review your prescription, check for interactions, and counsel you. Dispensing fees in Canada range from $4.49 (Costco) to over $12 (Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall). This fee is the biggest reason prices differ between pharmacies for the same drug.
Are generic drugs as effective as brand-name drugs?
Yes. Health Canada requires generic drugs to demonstrate bioequivalence to the brand-name version, meaning they contain the same active ingredient at the same dose and are absorbed at the same rate. Generic drugs typically cost 50-80% less than their brand-name counterparts.
How much can I save by comparing pharmacy prices?
Canadians can save 20-70% on prescription medications by comparing prices across pharmacies. The biggest savings come from: switching to pharmacies with lower dispensing fees (save $5-8 per fill), asking for generic alternatives (save 50-80%), and using provincial drug programs when eligible.
Pharmacies & Pricing
Which pharmacy has the cheapest dispensing fees in Canada?
Costco Pharmacy consistently has the lowest dispensing fees in Canada at $4.49 per prescription. You do NOT need a Costco membership to use their pharmacy in most provinces. Walmart Pharmacy is also affordable at around $9.97. Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall tend to have higher dispensing fees of $11-12+.
Do I need a Costco membership to use their pharmacy?
In most Canadian provinces, you do NOT need a Costco membership to use their pharmacy. Pharmacy services are considered essential and are legally required to be accessible to everyone. Simply tell the door greeter you're visiting the pharmacy.
Can I transfer my prescription to a cheaper pharmacy?
Yes! You can transfer your prescription to any pharmacy in Canada. Simply go to the new pharmacy, provide your prescription details or the name of your current pharmacy, and they will handle the transfer for you. No need to visit your doctor for a new prescription.
Provincial Coverage
Is my medication covered by my provincial drug plan?
Each province has its own drug coverage program with different formularies. Ontario has the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB), Quebec has RAMQ, and BC has PharmaCare. Use our Coverage Checker tool to see if your specific medication is covered by your provincial plan.
What is the Trillium Drug Program?
The Trillium Drug Program is Ontario's program for people who have high prescription drug costs relative to their income. If you spend approximately 4% or more of your net household income on prescription drug costs, you may qualify for assistance. It covers drugs listed on the Ontario Drug Benefit Formulary.